Inside the Mind

Why Ive been gone

2011-12-11T18:23:00.002-06:00

Hey guys, as you can tell it has been quite a while since I have posted anything. Things have been pretty crazy around my house and reading just hasn't been at the top of my list of things to do. Although I am hoping to change that with the new year. I have a few things scheduled already and I am hoping to be able to post some more reviews. So keep an eye out and hopefully things will be looking better.

The Gray Wolfe Throne - Cinda Williams Chima

2011-09-01T03:48:00.000-05:00

Release Date - September 20, 2011
Publisher - Hyperion
Age Group - 12 and up
Pages - 517
Series - Seven Realms
Rating - 4.5/5

Summary - Han Alister thought he had already lost everyone he loved. But when he finds his friend Rebecca Morley near death in the Spirit Mountains, Han knows that nothing matters more than saving her. The costs of his efforts are steep, but nothing can prepare him for what he soon discovers: the beautiful, mysterious girl he knew as Rebecca is none other than Raisaana’Marianna, heir to the Queendom of the Fells. Han is hurt and betrayed. He knows he has no future with a blueblood. And, as far as he’s concerned, the princess’s family killed his own mother and sister. But if Han is to fulfill his end of an old bargain, he must do everything in his power to see Raisa crowned queen.

Meanwhile, some people will stop at nothing to prevent Raisa from ascending. With each attempt on her life, she wonders how long it will be before her enemies succeed. Her heart tells her that the thief-turned-wizard Han Alister can be trusted. She wants to believe it—he’s saved her life more than once. But with danger coming at her from every direction, Raisa can only rely on her wits and her iron-hard will to survive—and even that might not be enough.

The Gray Wolf Throne is an epic tale of fierce loyalty, unbearable sacrifice, and the heartless hand of fate.

Review - (This one is coming from my brother. You may or may not remember, but he also reviewed the first novel in this series. You can find that here. )

As I have read this series, I have come to love the characters. Cinda does an amazing job portraying the emotions and struggles, pulling in your attention, and holding it to the very end.

This book was a great culmination of the events taking place in the queendom of Fellsmarch. As the Princess Heir, Raisa ana' Marianna deals with love and general teenage issues, she must also deal with the repercussions of her previous actions in the queendom, and events unfolding before her, on top of avoiding various attempts on her life.

The other main character, Han Alister, also must deal with struggles and hardships. Anything from his deep feelings for the princess, to the untraveled territory of political matters, keeps him in a whirlwind of uncertainty and trouble.

This book did a great job at balancing the two sides of the story, moving back and forth between the two, but never too frequently to be confusing, but never too far apart as to be a bore. As events began to unfold, the story does a great job at drawing you in, and keeping you there to the very end. From the intrigue of romance, to the suspense of assassination attempts. The book was thoroughly enjoyable.

As this chapter in the series came to a close, the events began to slow, and became fairly predictable. Without a significant twist, or event, the ending came up a little short on satisfaction, but the remainder has the potential to make you want more.

Cover - 5

Plot - 4

Characters - 5

Writing - 5

Ending - 3

The Near Witch - Victoria Schwab

2011-07-31T00:13:00.000-05:00

Release Date - August 2, 2011
Publisher - Hyperion
Age Group - 12 to 18
Pages - 288
Rating 5/5

Summary - The Near Witch is only an old story told to frighten children.

If the wind calls at night, you must not listen. The wind is lonely, and always looking for company.

And there are no strangers in the town of Near.

These are the truths that Lexi has heard all her life.

But when an actual stranger—a boy who seems to fade like smoke—appears outside her home on the moor at night, she knows that at least one of these sayings is no longer true.

The next night, the children of Near start disappearing from their beds, and the mysterious boy falls under suspicion. Still, he insists on helping Lexi search for them. Something tells her she can trust him.

As the hunt for the children intensifies, so does Lexi’s need to know—about the witch that just might be more than a bedtime story, about the wind that seems to speak through the walls at night, and about the history of this nameless boy.

Part fairy tale, part love story, Victoria Schwab’s debut novel is entirely original yet achingly familiar: a song you heard long ago, a whisper carried by the wind, and a dream you won’t soon forget.

Review - The Near Witch was, to simply put it, AMAZING! From the first moment I picked this book up I didn't want to put it down. At first I didn't know why. I remember thinking, "why am I so into this? Nothing has even happened."

I'll tell you what happened, Ms. Victoria Schwab has made one amazing novel that everyone should read.

Let me start off by talking about the cover. Its not a pop out, look at me cover, but it is very pretty and does tie into the story.

On to the plot. It was original, for me. I can say I have never read a book like this one. As I said before I was hooked from page one and it kept me there through out the remainder. I don't think I once had a boring moment. Once it really got going, I had to know what was gonna happen next.

I definitely enjoyed all of the characters. they all had their own unique personality and made the story what it was. Without those I think the story wouldn't have been as enjoyable. The main character, Lexi, was amazing. I loved her kick- ass, heroine personality. But I did enjoy seeing her vulnerable side too.

Victoria's writing.... The best thing I can say is I can't wait for whatever she has in store for us next. Her first novel was amazing and I am sure I will also enjoy anything else that she decides to write.

Amazing book and I can't wait for more from Victoria.

Cover - 5

Plot - 5

Characters - 5

Writing - 5

Ending - 5

Tempest Rising - Tracey Deebs

2011-07-10T15:43:00.000-05:00

Release Date - May 10, 2011
Publisher - Walker Books for Young Readers
Age Group - Teen
Pages - 288
Rating - 5/5

Summary - Tempest Maguire wants nothing more than to surf the killer waves near her California home; continue her steady relationship with her boyfriend, Mark; and take care of her brothers and surfer dad. But Tempest is half mermaid, and as her seventeenth birthday approaches, she will have to decide whether to remain on land or give herself to the ocean like her mother. The pull of the water becomes as insistent as her attraction to Kai, a gorgeous surfer whose uncanny abilities hint at an otherworldly identity as well. And when Tempest does finally give in to the water's temptation and enters a fantastical underwater world, she finds that a larger destiny awaits her—and that the entire ocean's future hangs in the balance.

Review - I don't even know how to begin this one, other than if you have it on your shelves get up and start reading it. If you don't, go out and get a copy because it was amazing. This book made me feel things I never thought I would feel about it.

The main character, Tempest, is forced to make a huge decision and I was shocked with the one that she made. I cried, I held my mouth and I didn't want to put this book down. I didn't want it to end! I don't think there was ever a part in this novel that I was bored with.

There were parts along the plot that were slightly predictable, but in a good way. I loved how it slowly grew to its climax, peaked high and dropped. But it didn't stay down for long. Those last two pages shot it way back up, making the ending of this story great! It left me wanting to know more, but if there isn't another book, I would be okay with that too.

I loved each and every character in this book. Especially Moku. He always made me smile. I was a little confused with how relationships formed and ended but by the end I didn't care. I wanted them to be where they were.

As I was reading I didn't think I would read this book again, but after finishing and sitting here writing my review, I know I would. Tempest Rising has become one of my favorites that I think everyone needs to go out and read!

Cover - 4

Plot - 5

Characters - 5

Writing - 5

Ending - 10/5

Demonglass - Rachel Hawkins

2011-06-10T20:43:00.001-05:00

Release Date - March 1, 2011
Publisher - Hyperion Books
Age Group - 12 & up
Pages - 359
Rating - 5/5

Summary - Sophie Mercer thought she was a witch.

That was the whole reason she was sent to Hex Hall, a reform school for delinquent Prodigium (aka witches, shapeshifters, and fairies). But that was before she discovered the family secret, and that her hot crush, Archer Cross, is an agent for The Eye, a group bent on wiping Prodigium off the face of the earth.

Turns out, Sophie’s a demon, one of only two in the world—the other being her father. What’s worse, she has powers that threaten the lives of everyone she loves. Which is precisely why Sophie decides she must go to London for the Removal, a dangerous procedure that will destroy her powers.

But once Sophie arrives she makes a shocking discovery. Her new friends? They’re demons too. Meaning someone is raising them in secret with creepy plans to use their powers, and probably not for good. Meanwhile, The Eye is set on hunting Sophie down, and they’re using Archer to do it. But it’s not like she has feelings for him anymore. Does she?

Review - I am completely speechless and quite irritated at the moment! How can it just end like that? I HATE cliffhangers! Ha kidding I cannot wait for the next book!!!

Ok so let me break it all down. The cover of Demonglass is gorgeous! Im not entirely sure how her outfits and the cat tie in but non-the-less I still love it.

Plot, Plot, where do I even begin? The plot thickens. LIke from chowder to stew! Bad simile, metaphore :) I was totally shocked with where Demonglass went! I was shocked from the very beginning. I gasped throughout the book and laughed so many times. So much happened and so much changed and I loved almost every second, GAH!! I cannot stress enough how much I cant wait for book three.

We were introduced to some new characters and got to reunite with some old. Old relationships spark back up and then we get to see some new ones form. Where they are headed I dont know but I definitely cant wait to see. Especially after the way that Demonglass ended.

If you have read Hex Hall and havent gotten to Demonglass, get out from in front of the screen and go find yourselves a copy. If you havent read Hex Hall, well then the things I am thinking cannot be repeated. Just kidding but really you all need to get out and get yoursleves a copy of these books. In my opinion they should be on everyones "MUST READ IN YOUR LIFETIME" list.

Cover - 5
Plot - 5
Characters - 5
Writing - 5
Ending - 5

The A Circuit - Georgina Bloomberg & Catherine Hapka

2011-06-10T20:26:00.002-05:00

Release Date - May 24, 2011
Publisher - Bloomsbury
Age Group - 12 & up
Pages - 272
Rating -

Summary - The A Circuit is the top of the top when it comes to horse shows. It's a world with its own rules and superprivileged lifestyles. Teens travel the circuit all year, showing horses that cost as much as some homes.
Tommi, Kate, and Zara are all elite competitors on the circuit, but they come from totally different backgrounds. Tommi is a billionaire heiress trying to prove she has real talent (not just deep bank accounts). Kate puts the working in working student—every win has been paid for with hours of cleaning stalls. She's used to the grueling schedule, but Fitz, the barn's resident hot guy, is about to become a major distraction. And then there's Zara. She's the wild child of a famous rockstar, but she's ready to take riding seriously. Can a party girl really change her ways?
Readers who enjoy peeking into the elite world of Gossip Girl or The A-List will feel right at home in this new series with its friendships, drama, and privilege set against the backdrop of competitive horseback riding.

Review - I just want to start off by saying I was not able to finish this novel. I believe the only reason is because this novel talks a lot about horses specifically and I know absolutely nothing about them. Its hard for me to understand what I am reading and therefore I was not enjoying it.

If you know about horses then this is the book for you but if you dont know anything, like me, then there is a chance that you wont enjoy it either. But give it a try and see for yourself. You may be able to read around all the details.

Author Interview : Amalie Howard

2011-06-10T20:11:00.001-05:00

Amalie Howard

Website | Twitter

Books

Bloodspell

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Tell us about your debut novel, Bloodspell, and what readers can expect.

Readers can expect a multi-layered urban fantasy story, one that will transport them to different cities, and introduce them to a completely different world. When you're working in this type of genre, you have to have very interesting characters—ones that will stand out from the hundreds of other books of this ilk in the market today.

In Bloodspell, I think there's something for everyone in any of my characters. There's vulnerability, there's charm, there's arrogance, there's smarts, there's anger, there's humor.

My characters face a bunch of conflicts, similar to ones teens face today, like fitting in and being true to who you are, like love, like loss, and like fighting for what you believe in. This novel has a lot of very relevant messages for today's teenagers, and ones that aren't "in-your-face" messages. Readers will identify with most of the themes, and of course, they're all disguised within an engaging story. I think even a paranormal novel has to have some depth, and has to offer something for readers to chew on, leave them with something meaningful. I'd hope that Bloodspell does that.

You have traveled and lived all across the world, and you based a lot of the surroundings in your book on your college town in Maine. What made Waterville the perfect backdrop for the book?

Maine is a very beautiful state, with so much open space, green forests and beautiful lakes. I love the fact that it's also so remote. From a supernatural perspective, it's cool because you can have any number of things happening right in your own backyard, and no one would be the wiser. Obviously I chose Waterville because it's where I spent four years of college, so I know the layout, and I wanted that kind of small town feel for the setting of Windsor Academy. I also didn't want a town that was too small, where if you were a vampire, most likely all your neighbors were definitely doing to know about it. ;)

The college I went to is on some very beautiful property, and a lot of those red-brick buildings and open green quads have stuck with me over the years. The locations (Maine, New York, France) in Bloodspell all seemed to fit together really well. And you know what they say, “write what you know.” So I did.

You're a sucker for witches and vampires. Who do you think would win in a battle?

Honestly as much as I love vampires with their super strength and speed (and hotness), I think a witch would win hands down … especially if they're Victoria. I mean, she's got the power of the magical world at her fingertips. As Victoria said so eloquently in the book, "I already fear for my life just because of who I am, you think adding a little inconsequential vampire to the equation will change any of that?” Yeah, she's feisty! A single word from her—and a vampire would be dust. Still, let's be realistic and talk about "normal" witches or warlocks. With any spell, it has to be directed at something/someone, so theoretically if a vampire can move quickly—like Christian—then he can certainly out-maneuver a magical opponent and turn the odds in his favor (i.e., the fight between Christian and Gabriel). So I guess my answer would be – Victoria, hands down. Any other witch/warlock against a vampire, you’ve got pretty even odds (give or take vampire age, etc.)

Your protaganist, Victoria Warrick, is strong, smart and undoubtedly different from her peers. How did you shape her character?

Victoria doesn't come across immediately as strong or smart. She's fragile, like most any teenage girls (especially with peer pressure and being different), but it takes a lot of strength to hide that fragility. It's like a bravado, a shell to keep from letting anyone in or getting hurt. Still, she's not easily cowed even though you can guess that she's endured years of pure high-school hell. Already different, she becomes even more so when she discovers what she is. She finds her true inner strength when she starts to come into her own. Not only does she have to deal with normal social pressures, she's also a witch whose blood can consume her in one second of doubt, one iota of weakness. So she has to deal with that, while trying to make friends and have a life. Let's not even consider the fact that the boy she likes is a vampire who has his own set of issues. So normal for her is like a pipe dream, but she still wants it, just like every other teen out there.

In Victoria's type of scenario, there are two ways you can go—give up and say, “I can't handle being this different,” or embrace who you are and rock it. Victoria is NOT giving up … she's not losing the life she's built for herself or her friends and family. I think that's a great message for anyone, teens especially. She takes the bull by the horns and doesn't let go. Is she scared? Of course. But facing her fear is part of finding that strength and courage that makes her take hold of who she is and say, “This is who I am, for better or for worse.”

I'm a pretty avid reader of books, young adult books especially, and I wanted her character to be strong but relatable, because her growth in the novel has to be believable. As a reader, you have to connect with her and be willing to be a part of her journey. It has to be something that any reader/teen can accomplish themselves, even if they're not the most powerful witch in the world.

Victoria is every-girl and no-girl at the same time. She's likeable, she's funny, she's smart, she has a lot of empathy, but she also makes mistakes and does stupid things sometimes. She's a normal person who evolves into someone extraordinary.

You suffered for years from anorexia and bulimia after losing your best friend and today talk to teens and parents about image issues. How did you overcome it? Did writing have anything to do with that?

I've talked to many teens and parents over the years in informal settings about eating disorders and image problems, especially after having come through it myself. In my case, I had already been suffering with image issues because I started attending a predominantly white college in a completely different country. It was a big culture shock; I wasn't blond or blue-eyed, I wasn't tall, and I certainly wasn't thin. I felt unattractive and helpless that I didn't fit in. And then I gained the requisite "freshman fifteen" my freshman year, and felt even less attractive. I began to diet, something I had never done.

When my friend died in a car accident one day before I left to spend my junior year in France, it felt like I had no control over anything in my life (like this very tiny person lost in a huge stormy ocean), so I clamped down on the one thing I could – food. Losing weight became cathartic for me. The skinnier I became, the stronger I felt. It was so consuming that I even became a vegan (no meat, no dairy). Obviously, it was unhealthy, but I felt like I was winning. I did write a lot of poetry during that time—a lot of angry and raw poetry that my French professor there advised me to burn—but writing wasn't the answer. Getting help, was. My turning point came when a doctor in France told me that I would have to be hospitalized. It was a wake-up call. When I returned to the States, I checked myself in for voluntary counseling. I was scared to go, scared to reveal my secrets and to unsheathe the horror that my life had become. But I went. My psychologist was amazing. She helped me to find answers on dealing with loss, and separated those from weight/image.

During that time, I really found myself. I found an inner strength I didn't know I had. I celebrated the things that made me different, and I used that fledgling confidence to build the foundation of the person I am today. This experience has given me a lot to talk—and write—about. My protagonist, Victoria, is faced with a huge "disorder," one that can consume her just as mine almost did, but she decides her own fate. She doesn't just sit back and let things take over—she fights for the person she must be, even in the face of overwhelming odds.

How was writing a novel different than, and similar to, writing for newspapers?

Holy cow, it's way different. I wrote a story once, and my newspaper editor said, “OK, now we need to take the tone from you writing-for-readers-who-know-you to more of a journalistic voice.” She's a great editor, and the piece was perfect in the end. Writing a journalistic piece is a bit like homework. You take notes about something and you write an article. Writing a novel is much larger in scope and depth. You not only have to have a story with a plot, progression, and character development, but it also has to be something that your audience is going to want to read, and love. Plus a newspaper article is like around 500 hundred words, and a novel is 200 times that length!

Writing my novel got kick started when I went to the bookstore one day looking for a book. When I couldn’t find something that I hadn’t already read, I decided to write my own. I wasn’t daunted because I’d written enough short stories (especially about Christian in some form or another) to know that I had a book somewhere inside me.

So I got out my laptop and I just started writing until everything was out on the page, completely raw. I didn’t have an outline. I just had this image of a girl with this amazing power who is thrust into this scary supernatural world, and I ran with it. And here we are.

Out of the 18 countries you have visited – and eaten in – which has the best food, in your opinion?

I've visited 141 cities in 18 countries, so it's hard to just pick one. If I had to choose, I'll probably get crushed for it because it's a little predictable, but I'd have to say France. I love, love, love French food. Some of it can be rich, but it's so perfectly proportioned with so many different complex tastes. Sweet or savory, it's heavenly. And I'm talking about something as simple as a baguette with jam to chicken in a savory white wine sauce. And let's not even get into desserts! A close second is Italy. I literally ate my way through Tuscany. Anyone who says pasta is a simple food really has no idea until they go there. Now you're getting me started, because I have to give a shout out to my Caribbean roots; the food is like an explosion of color and texture in your mouth, pretty much like the range of people who migrated from other parts of the world to live there. Eating Caribbean food is an experience in itself, because a lot of it isn't about the food, it's about the revelry that surrounds food. On a side note, I just came back from a month-long trip to Australia, and enjoyed a piece of steak at a restaurant that literally melted in my mouth. I was in taste-bud heaven. I know, I'm easy. I just love good food. It's like art appreciation – creative, beautifully presented, and consumed with gusto.

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The spell was simple …

Cruentus Protectum. Defend the Blood.

But what do you do if your blood is your enemy?

Victoria Warrick has always known she was different. An outcast at school, she is no stranger to adversity. But when she receives an old journal for her seventeenth birthday, nothing prepares her for the dark secrets it holds—much less one that reveals she’s a witch with unimaginable power.
What’s more, when she meets the dazzling but enigmatic Christian Devereux, she has no idea how much her life is about to change. Enemies will hunt her. Friends will turn on her. The terrible curse that makes her blood run black will stop at nothing to control her. And Christian has a sinister secret of his own …
Without knowing whom to trust, can Victoria survive her blood’s deadly desires? Or will she lose everything, including herself?

Review: OyMG - Amy Fellner Dominy

2011-05-11T04:57:00.003-05:00

Release Date - May 10, 2011

Publisher - Walker Books
Age Group - 12 & up
Pages - 256
Rating - 4/5

Summary - Ellie Taylor loves nothing better than a good argument. After all, she’s been arguing with her Zeydeh (that’s grandfather in Yiddish) since she could talk. So when she gets accepted to the Christian Society Speech and Performing Arts summer camp, she’s sure she can win the final tournament and a scholarship to the best speech school in the country. Unfortunately, the competition at CSSPA is hot—literally. His name is Devon and whether she likes it or not, being near him makes her sizzle. Luckily she’s up for the challenge—until she begins to suspect that the private scholarship’s benefactor has negative feelings toward Jews. Will hiding her true identity be worth a shot at her dream?

Review - Let me just start off by saying OyMG was nothing like I thought it would be. I went into it not expecting to enjoy it but I did. It made me laugh so many times! And I found myself really enjoying Ellie, the main character. Just looking at the cover I made judgements that were really wrong. I felt this novel had a really strong message.

By the end of OyMG I was very very happy with Ellie and what she finally decided. And Devon. I loved everything about this book and Im finding it hard to put into words. I think I found myself skeptical in the beginning because I myself am not really a religious person but I loved how the main point behind the story was their religion.

One thing that was slightly off to me was the fact that ellie was only 114, but the was she acted and spoke came across as much older. Say 19 or 20, which was easier for me to relate to. Amy's writing made it hard for me to imagine her as my little sister, who is 14.

Overall I thouroughly enjoyed the novek and all its characters. Especially Zeydeh!!

I would recommend this novel to anyone who is looking for a light quick read and someone with an open mind.

Cover - 4
Plot - 4
Characters - 5
Writing - 5
Ending - 5

Guest Post: Cara Chow

2011-05-03T17:19:00.001-05:00

Today I have the honor of having Cara Chow, author or Bitter Melon, stopping by and talking about her most challenging experiences as a writer.

Website | Bitter Melon

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One of the most challenging and interesting experiences for me as awriter has been hearing others’ reactions to my work.

I wish I could say that I have a thick skin, but I’ve never beena good liar. One of my earliest memories of receiving criticism ismailing a rough draft of a story to my best friend when I was a teenager. I expected her to read it and tell me how great it was. Instead, she sentback my manuscript riddled with line edits. My friend is a very nice,very smart, and very generous person. She was trying to help me, not hurtmy feelings. But instead of reading her comments, I tossed the manuscriptinto the trash.

Over twenty years later, I look back on this moment and wonder why Idid that.

I must have had this notion that a writer, like any artist, had to be agenius in order to be good. As a teen, one of my favorite movies was Amadeus. In the movie, Salieri waspathologically envious of Mozart because Mozart was a genius, whereas Salieriwas just mediocre. When Mozart composed his music, the notes just pouredonto the page perfectly the first time around. There was no need forrevision. I believed that I should write the way Mozart composed. Therefore, if someone told me that I needed to revise my manuscript, then Imust not be a genius like Mozart. I must be like Salieri, hopelesslymediocre and destined for the insane asylum.

No wonder I got depressed a lot during the early drafts of my book.

Another reason I was resistant to hearing feedback was because I haddifficulty separating myself from my work. This was especially the casewith Bitter Melon because thefictional story was inspired by something that happened in my life. (Iwrite more about this in my guest blog post on Galleysmith.com.) WheneverI was told that I had an overly complicated plot, I dismissed that person ashaving too short an attention span to follow complex work. If someonesaid that my antagonist needed to be portrayed in a more sympathetic manner, Iwould accuse him or her of not appreciating edgy characters.

If I had clung to these beliefs, I don’t think I would be apublished author today. So what helped me to change?

Well, the first step to recovery is admitting that you have aproblem. After a particularly harsh (or so it seemed at the time)critique in a writing workshop, I emailed my teacher to inform her that I wasthinking about leaving the class. Within minutes of my hitting the“send” button, my teacher called me. Instead of ridiculing mefor being over-sensitive, she admitted that she too got her feelings hurt fromtime to time during critiques. My writing teacher is an accomplished poet,fiction writer, essayist, and performer. She is also a gifted teacher anda wise person. If even she was susceptible to getting her feelings hurt,then maybe I could forgive myself for being so sensitive. Once I overcamethe shame of being thin-skinned, I was able to forgive my classmates and moveon.

I also learned to separate myself from my work. As I made peacewith my own past, I no longer needed to process it through my writing, so myprotagonist was able to become her own person with a story that was separatefrom mine. As I became less identified with my book, I was able to hearothers’ feedback for what it was, feedback on my work, not criticism ofme. Because many students in my writing workshop were writing memoirs, mywriting teacher facilitated this process by encouraging us to use terms like“your protagonist” instead of “you” when discussingothers’ work.

I also benefited from the process of having to give as well as receivefeedback. Many times I was blind to a flaw in my own work until I saw itin someone else’s. As I read my classmates’ revisions, Istarted to learn about how their lives informed their writing, what theirstrengths and weaknesses were, where they were at in terms of skill level andcompletion of the work, what motivated or discouraged them, and how they triedto integrate feedback into their revisions. The more I learned aboutothers’ processes, the more I understood my own.

As the years passed and as my drafts accumulated, I also learned how tofilter the feedback I received. I figured out who “got” mybook and who didn’t, so I no longer got bent out of shape if someone madean unhelpful comment. If many readers made the same kind of comment, Iknew to pay attention, especially if they had different sensibilities. Finally, I learned how to reconcile conflicting advice. I used to getfrustrated by this, until I learned to understand not only what people weresaying but why they were saying it. A lot of times, they were reacting tothe same issue or problem but were framing it differently. Once Iunderstood this, the problems in my book became easier to fix.

The more I revised, the more I learned to respect revision. Ibegan to shed the Mozart Myth. When I was a high school student, I oftengot labeled as smart. This annoyed me. I didn’t think I wasthat smart. In fact, I viewed myself as rather slow, so I compensated byworking harder. The net result was that I tended to do well. Ilearned to view myself this way in terms of my writing. I didn’thave to be a genius. I just needed to show up and not quit. Ialso gave up viewing myself as a Writerand instead began viewing myself as a mother/wife/daughter/friend/Pilatesteacher/cook/traveler/gardener who happened to write. For me, thisidentity was healthier because I was diversifying my ego portfolio instead ofinvesting my whole ego into just one form of success. As I became lessinvested in becoming a successful writer, I became more patient. So whenmy agent read my eighth draft and asked me if I was interested in doing anotherrevision, I said, “Sure, why not? I’ve been working on thisfor nine years. What’s another year?” My newfoundpatience stayed with me as I wrote the ninth and tenth drafts for my agent, andagain when I wrote the eleventh, twelfth, and thirteenth drafts for my editorat Egmont USA.

My thicker skin served me well when I was querying agents, especiallywhen one agent sent me a form letter that read “This isn’t forme,” not on a sheet of paper but a skinny strip of paper cut with scissorsfrom a page. (Was he being green or cheap?) It continued to serveme as my book went to auction, when my agent forwarded to me editors’comments, which ranged from positive to negative, tactful to blunt.

Now that my book has been published, I continue to get interestingfeedback, though it is now quite different in nature. So far, no one tomy knowledge has criticized the quality of the writing, but I have receivedsome interesting reactions to the subject matter. Many readers love thebook because they identify with Frances, either because of the mother-daughtertheme and/or the theme of success and failure. Ironically, a few havefound the book hard to like for the very same reason, that is, it cut too closeto home and made them feel uncomfortable. One reviewer complained thatthe book was too stereotypical because my Asian American protagonist is astellar student and has a Tiger mother. (As we all know, such a story hasno basis in reality!) Also ironic, many of the readers who identify with Francesare not of Asian descent. To this, I can only say,“Hurrah!” That is exactly what I intended.

When people ask me how long it took to finish my book, I don’tknow whether to feel embarrassed or proud. To my surprise, the unanimousreaction I get is always one of respect.

Review: Haven - Kristi Cook

2011-05-03T16:54:00.001-05:00

Release Date - February 22, 2011

Publisher - Simon Pulse
Age Group - 14 & up
Pages - 416
Rating - 4/5

Summary - One month into her junior year, sixteen-year-old Violet McKenna transfers to the Winterhaven School in New York’s Hudson Valley, inexplicably drawn to the boarding school with high hopes. Leaving Atlanta behind, she’s looking forward to a fresh start--a new school, and new classmates who will not know her deepest, darkest secret, the one she’s tried to hide all her life: strange, foreboding visions of the future.

But Winterhaven has secrets of its own, secrets that run far deeper than Violet’s. Everyone there--every student, every teacher--has psychic abilities, 'gifts and talents,' they like to call them. Once the initial shock of discovery wears off, Violet realizes that the school is a safe haven for people like her. Soon, Violet has a new circle of friends, a new life, and maybe even a boyfriend--Aidan Gray, perhaps the smartest, hottest guy at Winterhaven.

Only there’s more to Aidan than meets the eye--much, much more. And once she learns the horrible truth, there’s no turning back from her destiny. Their destiny. Together, Violet and Aidan must face a common enemy--if only they can do so without destroying each other first.

Review - Haven was a really good debut novel for Mrs. Cook. It had everything you could want in a paranormal romance. Of course it had its paranormal facter, as the description tells you, a school full of kids with psychic gifts, and it had its romance. And along with that came mystery and the main character finally finding herself and people she feels she belongs with. That was probably my favorite aspect about the novel. Violet, the main character, finally having what she wanted and needed.

I really enjoyed all aspects of this novel. In the middle I found myself a little bored but I cannot pinpoint why. I enjoyed all of the characters and the plot. It always kept me guessing and at the end it threw me a curve ball I never saw coming.

I can say that I had no complaints about Kristi's writing. I actually enjoyed it a lot. One thing I didnt like was the cover. Its pretty but I didnt feel it tied in with the book too well.

I would recommend this to any paranormal lover. It is now pretty close to the top of my favorite list.

Cover - 4
Plot - 4
Characters - 4
Writing - 4
Ending - 4

Review: Darkness Becomes Her - Kelly Keaton

2011-05-03T16:29:00.001-05:00

Release Date - February 22, 2011
Publisher - Simon Pulse
Age Group - 14 & Up
Pages - 288
Rating - 4/5

Summary -
Ari can’t help feeling lost and alone. With teal eyes and freakish silver hair that can’t be changed or destroyed, Ari has always stood out. And after growing up in foster care, she longs for some understanding of where she came from and who she is.Her search for answers uncovers just one message from her long dead mother: Run. Ari can sense that someone, or something, is getting closer than they should. But it’s impossible to protect herself when she doesn’t know what she’s running from or why she is being pursued.
She knows only one thing: she must return to her birthplace of New 2, the lush rebuilt city of New Orleans. Upon arriving, she discovers that New 2 is very…different. Here, Ari is seemingly normal. But every creature she encounters, no matter how deadly or horrifying, is afraid of her.
Ari won’t stop until she knows why. But some truths are too haunting, too terrifying, to ever be revealed.

Review - When I first pulled this off my shelf I was so excited to start it because of all the hype I had been hearing. I have to say the book definitely lived up to the hype. It had just about everything that I enjoy in a novel.

I like the cover, it has kind of a gothic feel to it, which goes well with the book, but I didn't quite find a connection with the cover and the book which could just be me. Although I still like it and after seeing the hardback cover in the store it is quite gorgeous.

The plot, I LOVED the plot. Everything about it. Darkness Becomes Her had a lot of Greek mythology intertwined in it. I have always been interested in Greek mythology but I don;t know much about it. When I started reading I had no idea that the story was gonna take the twisted path that it did. Twisted meaning the ups and downs and turns, not crazy twisted.

And the characters. I liked all of the characters. Ari was definitely my favorite. I loved her attitude. There were many times she was unsure and then she turned it all around with here "you can stick it" attitude.

I loved Ms. Keatons writing. She put enough details into it without overdoing it. My biggest thing I look for in an authors writing is if they can give me a picture without overloading and she did it! There was some profanity that could offend some, although it didnt bother me.

And she did a great job ending this novel. The ending made me gasp and left me wanting to know more. I had to know what was gonna happen next and I cant wait to read the next novel in this series.

This is a novel that I would reccomend to anyone who loved paranoral, mystery, romance and Greek mythology.

Cover - 3
Plot - 5
Characters - 5
Writing - 5
Ending - 5

I have not been taken captive!!

2011-04-17T15:10:00.001-05:00

Hey guys i just wanted to let everyone know that i have not vanished from the face of the earth!! I have several things that need to get posted just havent been able to get to the library. It really sucks not having a computer at home and internet. Its really hard to do everything from my phone. So keep an eye out cause somethings will be posted in the next week and im really looking in about that computer! :)

Author Interview : Suzanne Selfors

2011-02-14T16:16:00.002-06:00

Suzanne Selfors

Website

Teen Titles

Mad Love | Coffee House Angel | Saving Juliet

________________________

Today I have the pleasure of interviewing Suzanne Selfors about her writing and about her recent novel that I reviewed, Mad Love, which I recommend you guys get out and read. Here is what she had to say!

1. If you had to describe Mad Love in three words, what would you use?

Girl meets Cupid

2. Why choose Cupid? What initially made you want to write thew story?

I love Greek and Roman mythology. In my book, Coffeehouse Angel, I reimagined Hermes, the messenger for the gods. I knew that I wanted to do something with Cupid. And so I turned him into an eternal teen who may or may not be facing the end of his existence. And he's got a love story to tell.

3. What essentials did you need for writing Mad Love?

Not sure I understand this question. If you mean, what elements are part of my writing routine, I'd say that I almost always write in a coffeehouse, I usually drink a latte while writing, and I write directly onto my laptop, rarely do I write longhand.

4. What was the hardest part about writing Mad Love? Or was there one?

Revision is always the hardest part. I got rid of a couple of characters. I got rid of some time-traveling stuff I had in the first draft. It can be a rough process.

5. What can we expect from you next? Or do you know right now?
I'm working on my next teen novel, which will publish in 2012. I'm not going to reveal the plot just yet but it's a fairy tale complete with a prince, a farmboy and a peasant girl. It's very romantic.

Well there you have it guys. Not a lot but I thought it was very interesting to know a little behind the book and the process. And from the tid bit she gave us about whats next and from what I now know of her writing, I am very excited.

Review: Mad Love - Suzanne Selfors

2011-02-14T05:00:00.008-06:00

Release Date - January 4, 2011

Publisher - Walker Books for Young Readers

Age Group - Young Adult

Hardcover - 336 pages

Rating - 4/5

When you're the daughter of the bestselling Queen of Romance, life should be pretty good. But 16-year-old Alice Amorous has been living a lie ever since her mother was secretly hospitalized for mental illness. After putting on a brave front for months, time is running out. The next book is overdue, and the Queen can't write it. Alice needs a story for her mother—and she needs one fast.
That's when she meets Errol, a strange boy who claims to be Cupid, who insists that Alice write about the greatest love story in history: his tragic relationship with Psyche. As Alice begins to hear Errol's voice in her head and see things she can't explain, she must face the truth—that she's either inherited her mother's madness, or Errol is for real.

Review - Let me just start off by saying I have not read any of Suzanne's other novels, although I have wanted to. And now after finishing Mad Love, I can say I really want to read her others.

Im usually not into the chick-lit kind of book but something about this one had me hooked! When I started I thought I wasnt going to like it and it was pretty slow. But do not let that fool you. This nocel gets SO much better!

So your introduced to Alice, daughter of "The Queen of Romance" novels. But her life isnt perdect, in fact it is far from perfect. Her mother is mentally ill and she is left to take care of things at home. One of those cases is being, going to her mothers book signing. The event that changes everything for Alice.

Enter, Errol, aka Cupid. He wants his story to be wrote and he wants Alice to do it , but she is refusing. Errol takes Alice on a life changing adventure. But along the way it is not only her life that is being changed.

Along the way Alice has to deal with pain in the butt Realm, who wants to prove herself but goes about it in the wrong manner.

I love this book and everything about it. The plot was AMAZING! It made me laugh, it made my heart ache, it made me wanna cry. The characters, at times I loved them all, at others I wanted to slap a few into reality! Ms. Selfors' writing kept me hooked until the very end. I didnt want to put it down! For ANYTHING! And the ending was very well written to wrap everything up. It was everything that I wanted it to be.

I think I can say Suzanne Selfors is now one of my favorite authors and I would and will recommend this novel to many people!

Amazing, enthralling, and a MUST - READ!!

Cover - 4 stars

Plot - 5 stars

Characters - 5 stars

Writing - 5 stars

Ending - 5 stars

Other places to find Suzanne

Website

Review - Captivate by Carrie Jones

2011-02-11T16:47:00.001-06:00

Release Date - January 5, 2010
Publisher - Bloombsbury
Age Group - Young Adult
Pages - 288 pages
Rating - 3/5

Summary - Zara and her friends thought they had solved their pixie problems… but it turns out that their problems are just starting. Now that the previous pixie king is no longer in power, other pixies are moving in to the area, looking to claim his territory and his followers. Zara and her friends are the only ones that can stop them, but they’re also means they’re in the most danger. And when Zara meets a pixie who starts to convince her that the fae might not all be as evil as she thinks, she’s going to have to come to terms with what she’s done, and who she is… and who she’s becoming.

Review - As much as I wanted to love this book, I am sad to say I didn't. Now I am not saying that I hated it cause I didn't but it wasn't a favorite.

First off I felt like there was too much going on in the plot line in
too little time. The book took place over a few days and it was all
crammed in there. I do like where the series is headed but I feel like
it could have been put into one book instead of three.

Moving onto the characters. Loved Zara. Zara and Nick on the other
hand annoyed me. I cannot pin point why but I didn't like their
relationship. I didn't feel like there was much there. They loved each
other... just because. I do however, like the other characters and the
progression they have made.

As far as Carrie's writing, I do not have any issues with other than
too much crammed in too little time and spread out in too many books.
If that makes any sense. I do like some of the detailing she puts into
her writing. It makes my visual that much better.

And the Ending. I was left wanting to know more and wish it would have kept going. Also love the new character twist thrown in. Never saw it coming but loved it! I do plan on reading and reviewing Enticed so keep your eyes peeled.

Cover - 4 stars

Plot - 3 stars

Characters - 3 stars

Writing - 4 stars

Ending - 3 stars

Madame Tussaud - Michelle Moran Giveaway

2011-02-02T05:00:00.000-06:00

Have you read Cleopatra's Daughter by Michelle Moran? How bout The Heretic Queen or Nefertiti??? Did you love them? Well her newest novel, Madame Tussaud, is out February 15 and I have a chance for you to win your own copy!

The world knows Madame Tussaud as a wax artist extraordinaire . . . but who was this woman who became one of the most famous sculptresses of all time? In these pages, her tumultuous and amazing story comes to life as only Michelle Moran can tell it. The year is 1788, and a revolution is about to begin.

Smart and ambitious, Marie Tussaud has learned the secrets of wax sculpting by working alongside her uncle in their celebrated wax museum, the Salon de Cire. From her popular model of the American ambassador, Thomas Jefferson, to her tableau of the royal family at dinner, Marie’s museum provides Parisians with the very latest news on fashion, gossip, and even politics. Her customers hail from every walk of life, yet her greatest dream is to attract the attention of Marie Antoinette and Louis XVI; their stamp of approval on her work could catapult her and her museum to the fame and riches she desires. After months of anticipation, Marie learns that the royal family is willing to come and see their likenesses. When they finally arrive, the king’s sister is so impressed that she requests Marie’s presence at Versailles as a royal tutor in wax sculpting. It is a request Marie knows she cannot refuse—even if it means time away from her beloved Salon and her increasingly dear friend, Henri Charles.

As Marie gets to know her pupil, Princesse Élisabeth, she also becomes acquainted with the king and queen, who introduce her to the glamorous life at court. From lavish parties with more delicacies than she’s ever seen to rooms filled with candles lit only once before being discarded, Marie steps into a world entirely different from her home on the Boulevard du Temple, where people are selling their teeth in order to put food on the table.

Meanwhile, many resent the vast separation between rich and poor. In salons and cafés across Paris, people like Camille Desmoulins, Jean-Paul Marat, and Maximilien Robespierre are lashing out against the monarchy. Soon, there’s whispered talk of revolution. . . . Will Marie be able to hold on to both the love of her life and her friendship with the royal family as France approaches civil war? And more important, will she be able to fulfill the demands of powerful revolutionaries who ask that she make the death masks of beheaded aristocrats, some of whom she knows?

Spanning five years, from the budding revolution to the Reign of Terror, Madame Tussaud brings us into the world of an incredible heroine whose talent for wax modeling saved her life and preserved the faces of a vanished kingdom

But your not just your own copy, one lucky person, anywhere in the WORLD, is getting a signed copy along with a pair of these adorable Marie Antoinette cupcake earrings.

All you guys have to do is fill out this form! The Contest ends February 22!

Dreaming Anastasia & Haunted - Joy Preble

2011-02-01T05:00:00.002-06:00

Hey guys I have something amazing to share!!! Have you heard about the upcoming sequel to Dreaming Anastasia??? If not here is a look at it.

(From Goodreads)Anne Michaelson’s world turned upside down last fall when a handsome, blue-eyed and temporarily immortal Russian named Ethan informed her that she had a destiny to save the Grand Duchess Anastasia Romanov, held captive for decades by the witch Baba Yaga. But Anastasia had her own thoughts about destiny. And Anne and Ethan discovered that some things aren’t so easily undone. Now, six months later, the craziness in Anne’s world hasn’t gone away. Neither have her feelings for Ethan. Anne still has powers she doesn’t fully understand. She’s still dreaming about Baba Yaga’s forest. And she’s got a new boyfriend – very normal and very sweet lifeguard, Ben Logan. As for Ethan, well, he hasn’t quite gotten over the events of last fall, either. And he definitely hasn’t gotten over Anne. In short, everyone’s haunted by something – or someone.

Enter the rusalka – a Russian folklore mermaid with a malevolent streak - and a particular interest in Anne. When Ethan suddenly returns from Europe, Anne’s world collides with the paranormal once again. Her heart torn between Ben and Ethan, Anne’s search for the rusalka’s identity reveals deep and startling secrets - including the true source of Anne’s powers.

Like Dreaming Anastasia, Haunted is a wild adventure of a tale, a genre blend of fantasy, folklore and romanc

Now doesnt that sound like a really good read??? But you havent read the first one. Well in celebration of Haunted's release Sourcebooks is making it available for free - where ever e-books are sold - from February 1st to February 7th!!!! How awesome is that?? So I think if you haven't read it you should get out there and get your copy so that you will be ready for Haunted, when it is out.

Also if you guys come back in a few days I will have a review of Haunted up so you guys can see what I thought about it.

Csn Preferred Blogger

2011-01-23T11:38:00.001-06:00

Hi guys as you can tell from the title of this post I have been offered another chance to review a product for the lovely people at CSN. If you dont remember what I reviewed the first time here is what it was.

Here is what the bookshelf looked like when I got it and put it together.

And here is what it looks like now. The bottom shelf has two rows of books and I have two large stacks on top which have grown and have grown since this picture. So i think this is the perfect opportunity to try a new one. I love this one but I think I need something bigger. They have some great ones over at All Modern. So be looking forward to that review in the near future.

Good Bye 2010 Contest

2011-01-05T17:04:00.000-06:00

Hey guys so I was on twitter and found out about this amazing contest over at Bloody Bookaholic!!!! She is giving away three prize packs and there are thirty books in all!!!! There are some really good books up for grabs. There is a picture in the side bar so click it and head on over to enter!

2011 Debut Author Challenge

2011-01-02T11:59:00.001-06:00

Well after taking a long time to think about it i decided that i am going to go ahead and participate in the debut author challenge this year. After going over to Thestorysiren and really reading i realized that i thought wrong about the challenge. I thought that you had to post reviews that correspond with the month. I am glad to find out you dont. I am having to post this so I cant go into a long description or link anything but i can tell you to head on over to thestorysiren.com and check out the challenge if you havent already!

2010 Wrap Up

2011-01-01T12:05:00.000-06:00

Wow guys I think this was my worst year for blogging. I feel really awful and I am going to try and do better in 2011!!! In this post I will post all of my (failed) challenges, a link to books that I read this year and maybe later on I will add the books that I wanted to get to and the ones that I am looking forward to. Not having a computer or internet at home anymore makes things very very difficult. I try to keep up with it as much as possible by going to the library but its just not that easy when you dont have everything that you need right there in front of you. So here is the link to my Read in 2010 and my challenges.

Read in 2010

2010 Debut Author Challenge

2010 YA Challenge

2010 1st in a series Challenge

2010 2nd in a series Challenge

2010 A to Z Challenge

So in 2011 I dont think I will be participating in any challenges because I hate that I fail all of them.

Thanks guys and look forward to ,hopefully, more in 2011

Review: Firelight - Sophie Jordan

2010-12-28T18:43:00.001-06:00

Release Date - September 7, 2010

Publisher - HarperTeen

Age Group - Young Adult

Hardcover - 323 pages

(From Goodreads)

A hidden truth.

Mortal enemies.

Doomed love.

Marked as special at an early age, Jacinda knows her every move is watched. But she longs for freedom to make her own choices. When she breaks the most sacred tenet among her kind, she nearly pays with her life. Until a beautiful stranger saves her. A stranger who was sent to hunt those like her. For Jacinda is a draki—a descendant of dragons whose greatest defense is her secret ability to shift into human form.

Forced to flee into the mortal world with her family, Jacinda struggles to adapt to her new surroundings. The only bright light is Will. Gorgeous, elusive Will who stirs her inner draki to life. Although she is irresistibly drawn to him, Jacinda knows Will's dark secret: He and his family are hunters. She should avoid him at all costs. But her inner draki is slowly slipping away—if it dies she will be left as a human forever. She'll do anything to prevent that. Even if it means getting closer to her most dangerous enemy.

Mythical powers and breathtaking romance ignite in this story of a girl who defies all expectations and whose love crosses an ancient divide.

*****Spoiler Alert*****

I loved everything about this novel. From the cover, to the characters, to the romance. I loved how action packed it was but had its super romantic moments. I had a very hard time putting this one down and when I was at work I would tell everyone around about it and how I needed to know what was gonna happen next.

I love the characters and all the relationships between the characters. When I started reading Firelight I had no idea it would take the turn that it did.

When Will walked into the school and Jacinda could sense him, my mouth dropped and I gasped. The book did that to me many, many times. If I could use two words to describe this novel they would be gripping and jaw-dropping.

Thats also how the ending left me. I had to know what was gonna happen next and I was sad that I had to put it down.

I would recommend it to many people, and in fact have. The people that I work with and have told, now want to read it so head on out and get yourself a copy because this one is a MUST - READ!!!!

Cover - 5 stars

Plot - 5 stars

Chracters - 5 stars

Ending - 5 stars

Guest Post: Lisa Cach

2010-12-28T18:25:00.000-06:00

Website | Facebook | Twitter

Wake Unto Me

By Lisa Cach

Coming March 31, 2011

From Penguin Books
ISBN-10: 0142414360

Caitlyn Monahan knows she belongs somewhere else. It’s what her dead mother’s note suggested, and it’s what her recurring nightmares allude to. Desperate to flee these terrifying dreams—and her small town—she accepts a spot at a boarding school in France. Only, when she arrives, her nightmares get worse.

But then there are her amazing dreams, so vivid and so real, with visits from an alluring, mysterious, and gorgeous Italian boy from the 1500s. Caitlyn knows they are soul mates, but how can she be in love with someone who exists only in her dreams?

Then, as her reality and dream world collide, Caitlyn searches for the real reason why she was brought to this school. And what she discovers will change her life forever.

_________________________________________________________

On Book Cover Art

People often ask me if I get any say about the cover art for my books. Sure I do! But does anything I say end up on the cover? Rarely, which may be for the best. Here’s the story of the cover to Wake Unto Me.

My editor asked me, “Can you tell me any sort of ‘icons’ that will be in the book? If you can let me know of a few themes/images that you think of when writing the book, we can work with those to come up with a design.”

In response, I said and sent this:

“This is the portrait that was my inspiration for the de’ Medici woman burned as a witch, whose portrait hangs in the office of the headmistress:

Portrait of Lucrezia Panciatichi, by Bronzino. Uffizi Gallery, Florence, Italy (Right)

The castle in which the school is housed will play a major role in the story:

Chateau de Beynac, photo by Luc Viatour(Left)

Perhaps something with tarot cards? The Wheel of Fortune card is important:
“Wheel of Fortune” from the Rider-Waite tarot deck (Right)

I also said:

“The heroine has long, straight black hair and pale skin. Themes I think of are sisterhood, ancient feminine powers, alienation, longing. Longing to escape one’s origins, longing for love, longing for a sense of one’s own identity. A lot of the heroine’s experiences take place at night, so darkness, mist, and moonlight are good.”

And I also sent this because I thought it was spooky:
Detail of “Lady MacBeth” by Henry Fuseli (Right)

And this because I love Art Nouveau:

“Evening Star” by Alphonse Mucha( Left)

Many months later, my editor sent me the concept art that they’d come up with:

Of course, it looks nothing like any images I sent them, except maybe the smoky/ghosty bit is reminiscent of the Fuseli painting. It does capture ‘longing, mist, darkness,’ though.

The heroine’s hair is the wrong color, but oh well; you wouldn’t have been able to see black hair on a black background. Despite that, I loved the concept. My editor promised me that it would be ‘finessed’ – which I took to mean they’d fix it so the heroine didn’t look like she was wearing a big nasty wig.

The next version of the cover I saw was supposed to be the final version, the version that would appear in stores. I had two issues with it, the first of which had to do with her hands:

Can you see the problem?

Her hands are on the wrong arms!!!!

My other problem was that the heroine is obviously naked. Given that this is a YA novel, it seemed a wee bit too sexy.

They reattached the hands to the correct arms, and put a tiny little black tank top on the heroine, and here’s the final version:

And that’s the story – from the author’s point of view, at least! – of how the cover to Wake Unto Me was created.

___________________________________________________

Lisa's Bio: Lisa Cach is the award-winning author of more than twenty romantic novels and novellas, ranging across sub-genres from Paranormal, Historical, Contemporary, and Chick Lit, to Young Adult. Her novel “Dating Without Novocaine” was named one of Waldenbooks’ “Best Books of 2002,” and she is a two-time finalist for the prestigious RITA Award from the Romance Writers of America.

Lisa Cach was born and raised in the Pacific Northwest, where she still lives today. Her professional background includes teaching conversational English in Japan, and several years working the graveyard shift on a mental health crisis line. She has traveled to the foothills of the Himalaya, the jungles of Borneo, the Carpathian Mountains of Romania, and the painted caves of the Perigord Noir, in France. She has sailed the Caribbean as a working crew member of a research schooner, and the Bering Sea as a guest on a small ship.

Review- The Ghost and the Goth by Stacey Kade

2010-11-23T16:26:00.001-06:00

Release Date - June 29, 2010
Publisher - Hyperion Books
Age Group - Young Adult
Hardcover - 288

(From the Book Jacket) Alona Dare–Senior in high school, co-captain of the cheerleading squad, Homecoming Queen three years in a row, voted most likely to marry a movie star…and newly dead.

I’m the girl you hated in high school. Is it my fault I was born with it all-good looks, silky blond hair, a hot bod, and a keen sense of what everyone else should not be wearing? But my life isn’t perfect, especially since I died. Run over by a bus of band geeks—is there anything more humiliating? As it turns out, yes—watching your boyfriend and friends move on with life, only days after your funeral. And you wouldn’t believe what they’re saying about me now that they think I can’t hear them. To top it off, I’m starting to disappear, flickering in and out of existence. I don’t know where I go when I’m gone, but it’s not good. Where is that freaking white light already?

Will Killian–Senior in high school, outcast, dubbed “Will Kill” by the popular crowd for the unearthly aura around him, voted most likely to rob a bank…and a ghost-talker.

I can see, hear, and touch the dead. Unfortunately, they can also see, hear and touch me. Yeah, because surviving high school isn’t hard enough already. I’ve done my best to hide my “gift.” After all, my dad, who shared my ability, killed himself because of it when I was fifteen. But lately, pretending to be normal has gotten a lot harder. A new ghost—an anonymous, seething cloud of negative energy with the capacity to throw me around—is pursuing me with a vengeance. My mom, who knows nothing about what I can do, is worrying about the increase in odd incidents, my shrink is tossing around terms like “temporary confinement for psychiatric evaluation,” and my principal, who thinks I’m a disruption and a faker, is searching for every way possible to get rid of me. How many weeks until graduation?

What words can I use to desribe this novel...? Cute, funny, but my favorite word would be.... unoutdownable. Is that even a word?!?! Well I just made it one if not. The only time I wasn't reading this book, was when I was sleeping, working, or cooking. I wouldn't say it was suspensful but it kept my interests. It had its serious moments and then there were the others where I was laughing out loud!

At first I would have thought of this one as just super-natural but it is so much more. It has its supernatural aspects as well as a little chick-lit (to me), comedy and romance. I loved all the characters. They were all unique and if not likeable, loveable! So mant characters changed in this novel and it was great!

I loved everything about this novel and I would recommend running out and getting a copy right now!

Cover - 5 stars

Plot - 5 stars

Characters - 5 stars

Writing - 5 stars

Ending - 5 stars

Review - Hex Hall by Rachel Hawkins

2010-11-03T16:12:00.001-05:00

Release date : March 2, 2010
Publisher: Hyperion
Age Group: Young Adult
Hardcover - 336 pages

(From Amazon) Three years ago, Sophie Mercer discovered that she was a witch. It's gotten her into a few scrapes. Her non-gifted mother has been as supportive as possible, consulting Sophie's estranged father--an elusive European warlock--only when necessary. But when Sophie attracts too much human attention for a prom-night spell gone horribly wrong, it's her dad who decides her punishment: exile to Hex Hall, an isolated reform school for wayward Prodigium, a.k.a. witches, faeries, and shapeshifters.
By the end of her first day among fellow freak-teens, Sophie has quite a scorecard: three powerful enemies who look like supermodels, a futile crush on a gorgeous warlock, a creepy tagalong ghost, and a new roommate who happens to be the most hated person and only vampire on campus. Worse, Sophie soon learns that a mysterious predator has been attacking students, and her only friend is the number-one suspect. As a series of blood-curdling mysteries starts to converge, Sophie prepares for the biggest threat of all: an ancient secret society determined to destroy all Prodigium, especially her.

When I first read the description for this book I couldn't wait to get my hands on it. Then after I bought it, I read about half and had to put it down so that I could read something else. Finally, I picked it back up and was unable to put it down. I kept finding myself wanting to know what was gonna happen next but I felt it didnt hit its climax til the very end and the dropped. Which I am not saying is a bad thing. If I hadn't know there was going to be another, though, I probably would have been more disappointed, but knowing about the next, I am VERY excited.

I really loved everything about this novel. There were many unique characters and many did things that you never would have expected. That was one aspect of Rachel's writing that I really enjoyed. She could make you really dislike a character all through out the book and them make them do something so shocking that you never would have seen coming.Which for me made me see the character in a whole new light.

Although I thouroughly enjoyed this novel there were somethings that did bother me. There were a few times that Rachel would touch on a subject, that I felt was important to the story and then never went further with it. Which later made me think a lot about it once I had finished the novel.

Overall I really enjoyed Hex Hall. I loved that it included many fantasy creatures and had an original storyline. I would recommend it to anyone who enjoys paranormal novels, but with a hint of romance.

Cover - 5 stars

Plot - 5 stars

Characters - 5 stars

Writing - 5 stars

Ending - 4 stars

Amazing Covers

2010-10-21T18:14:00.000-05:00

Hey everyone I ran across these amazing covers over at The Compulsive Reader and thought I would share them with all of you. As she stated she judges book by their covers and I have to admit 99% of the time I do to :P But anywho here are the covers for you all to aww over as I have done :)

Ok, so I haven't quite finished Hex Hall yet, But I adore the cover for that one and love how they did the same with this one. I have to say It is absolutely GORGEOUS! (click the picture for description)

This one is by the lovely Lisa McMann. I own Wake and Fade, no gone sadly, but also sadly have not gotten to read them all the way yet. But look at this cover and if you read what The Compulsive Reader (linked above), you will definitely be intruiged to read it.

I have not read this series, but I know most of you have, but if you haven't just look at this cover and tell me that you are not intruiged! I know I am.

Loved book one, Loving book two, love all the cover and am sure I am going to love this one too! Go check it out!

My Review of 4-Tier Bookshelf in Natural Wood Grain

2010-10-04T19:28:00.001-05:00

Originally submitted at CSN Stores

Features:

Bookshelf
Natural wood grain finish
Stainless steel poles won't rust
Three shelves
Fits easy with any Decor
Will provide years of enjoyment

4 tier bookshelf

By Happy Book Blogger from Missouri on 10/4/2010

Pros: Supports Weight, Sturdy, Displays Books Well

Best Uses: Shelving & Storage, Space Saver

Describe Yourself: Midrange Shopper

I actually use this shelf for books that I review on my blog. It was big enough for the books that I currently have which is near a hundred but I will be needing another soon. when it came in the mail I was super excited and put it together right away. It was super super easy to put together and took me less than ten minutes.

(legalese)

Published with Blogger-droid v1.6.2

New Blog Design and upcoming Reviews

2010-09-07T17:13:00.000-05:00

Hey guys, as you all can see there has been a change to the blog. I wanted something more relaxig and it just so happens to include my favorite color. So let me know what you guys think.

Also there are many reviews on the way. I would tell you what they are but I think I'll make you wait. Tee hee. Also doesnt help that im in a bit of a hurry.

So let me know what you guys think and look forward to some new reviews.

Review - Along for the Ride - Sara Dessen (Audio Book)

2010-07-28T20:52:00.000-05:00

It’s been so long since Auden slept at night. Ever since her parents’ divorce—or since the fighting started. Now she has the chance to spend a c...more It’s been so long since Auden slept at night. Ever since her parents’ divorce—or since the fighting started. Now she has the chance to spend a carefree summer with her dad and his new family in the charming beach town where they live.

A job in a clothes boutique introduces Auden to the world of girls: their talk, their friendship, their crushes. She missed out on all that, too busy being the perfect daughter to her demanding mother. Then she meets Eli, an intriguing loner and a fellow insomniac who becomes her guide to the nocturnal world of the town. Together they embark on parallel quests: for Auden, to experience the carefree teenage life she’s been denied; for Eli, to come to terms with the guilt he feels for the death of a friend.

(Description taken from Goodreads)

Review- This book I would say would be for those who enjoy a light read. There wasn't any suspense or mystery. It was a great chick-lit novel. Personally I don't think it is something that I would read again but only because I am not much of a check-lit reader.
I listened to this at work and I have to say I found myself at times laughing my butt off. And other times just enjoying the fact that there was not a lot of detail to be distracted with. If I was reading it I think I would not have been able to finish it. I know I would have put it down but I did enjoy listening to it.
My sister-in-law bought me This Lullaby for Christmas last year and I do plan to read it, and honestly I think I might end up reading all of her others. I would recommend this for chick-lit lovers.

Cover - 3 stars
Plot - 3 stars
Characters - 4 stars
Writing - 4 stars
Ending - 4 stars

2011 YA Releases Giveaway!!!

2010-07-28T19:08:00.000-05:00

Can you believe it!!! I am so excited about many of these titles that are being released in 2011. I don't wanna tell you what they are so you are just gonna have to go look for yourself but I can tell you that they are from some amazing authors. Like I mean completely amazing. My favorite author, who shall remain nameless has a new book on there. Well obviously since they are 2011 releases but anyways, what are you still doing reading go check it out!!!!

La Femme Readers - 2011 YA Releases

EEEKKKKKK! Go look :)

Review - Sweet Potato Queens' Book of Love (Audio Cassette)

2010-07-21T20:03:00.000-05:00

To know the Sweet Potato Queens is to love them, and if you haven't heard about them yet, you will. Since the early 1980s, this group of belles gone bad has been the toast of Jackson, Mississippi, with their glorious annual appearance in the St. Patrick's Day parade. In The Sweet Potato Queens' Book of Love, their royal ringleader, Jill Conner Browne, introduces the Queens to the world with this sly, hilarious manifesto about love, life, men, and the importance of being prepared. Chapters include:
The True Magic Words Guaranteed to Get Any Man to Do Your Bidding
The Five Men You Must Have in Your Life at All Times
Men Who May Need Killing, Quite Frankly
What to Eat When Tragedy Strikes, or Just for Entertainment

And, of course:
The Best Advice Ever Given in the Entire History of the World

From tales of the infamous Sweet Potato Queens' Promise to the joys of Chocolate Stuff and Fat Mama's Knock You Naked Margaritas, this irreverent, shamelessly funny book is the gen-u-wine article.

Visit the Sweet potato Queens Web site at www.sweetpotatoqueens.com

(Taken from Goodreads)

Review - I loved this book!!!! This isn't something I would normally pick up but my sister-in-law suggested it to me to listen to at work. It was a hilarious book and it is great to listen to because the woman who wrote it is southern and well the book is written exactly how it is spoke. Its sometimes serious, but for the most part HILARIOUS! I dont know how many times I busted out laughing. I would suggest this to ANY woman, its too funny! I know i have said that a lot but I can't stress enough how funny it is.

Cover - 5 stars
Plot - (There really isnt one but) 5 stars
Characters - 5 stars
Writing - 5 stars
Ending - 4 stars

In My Mailbox 32

2010-07-21T19:15:00.000-05:00

In My Mailbox was started by Kristi over at The Story Siren! In My Mailbox is a way to share the books you received each week.

Here are the books that I have received in the last few weeks.

Sorry I didnt include pictures but if the titles intrigues you you can go ahead and click on it and it will take you on over to Goodreads

Summer Saradise 7 RC Giveaway!!!

2010-07-21T18:10:00.000-05:00

You guys have to go check out this awesome giveaway from Sara over at Babbling Flow. She is giving away not 1, not 2, but 7 ARC's and they are all amazing titles. You should go check it out!! It will definitely be worth your while!

Guest Post with Sean McCartney

2010-07-14T17:15:00.009-05:00

First off I would like to welcome Sean to Inside the Mind! He is the first author to do a guest post on my blog. He is here to talk about his new young adult series entitled THE TREASURE HUNTERS CLUB: SECRETS OF THE MAGICAL MEDALLIONS which comes out July 6^{th.
So without further ado..... Sean McCartney!
______________________________________________________________________}

Let me first thank Jordan for allowing me to talk with all of you today. Since this is the first guest blog post I do feel very honored.

My name is Sean McCartney and I am the author of the new young adult action adventure series entitled THE TREASURE HUNTERS CLUB: SECRETS OF THE MAGICAL MEDALLIONS which comes out July 6^th and is available for preorder on my website www.treasurehuntersclubbook.com and Amazon.

My road to publication is probably like many others. I started getting serious about writing novels in 2001. I wrote my first, THE 65^th TEAM in the summer of 2001 and sent it out waiting for all the offers to come in. The only thing that came through the mail was…

REJECTION! And lots of it.

I was stunned. Didn’t these publishers know that every word I put down was gold? That every thought must be perfect because I took the time? So I wrote another novel and another and the same thing kept happening.

REJECTION! What I didn’t understand at the time and after years of working on novels I see now was that I did not respect the words, the sentences or the paragraphs. I left story lines hanging. I assumed the reader would get it. The truth was I didn’t get it.

A friend of mine pointed out something that Mark Twain said and I have used as my guideline for the rest of my novels. “The difference between the right word and the wrong word is like the difference between lightening and a lightening bug.”

With that idea in mind I wrote a fantasy novel called BLACK KNIGHT CHRONICLES: RISE OF EVIL and sent it out. I was able to land an agent with that book and we embarked on looking for a publisher.

My agent sent the manuscript to all the big time publishers and some took a look but nothing came of it. They seemed to like the idea but I was told the market was saturated with fantasy books about knights and dragons and another wasn’t needed.

This was frustrating because during this time I mapped out a five book series and even wrote the second book to BLACK KNIGHT CHRONICLES called SHADOW WARS.

Finally after eight years I decided to write something I would have found myself reading as a kid. I went back to my youth and remembered all the friends I had and what we liked to do and thus THE TREASURE HUNTERS CLUB was born.

I really liked it. Of course I liked the other ones too but I decided to take a new approach with sending the book out for publication. I only queried small publishers. No agent this time, just me.

The rejections still came but there was a different tone to what came back. The publishers liked the ideas and read some of the story but with the economy tanking at the time they didn’t feel they could do TREASURE HUNTERS CLUB justice.

They say when you win the lottery it only takes one time to play. When I received the email from Mountainland Publishing wanting to publish my book I felt like I’d won the lottery.

It happened on July 17^th, 2009 and for the next year I went through the ups and downs of working with a small, relatively new publisher to get to this point: My book’s release on July 6^th, 2010.

Now the story turns to promotion and getting the word out, but that is for another time.

I would encourage, because begging is undignified, to get yourself a copy of THE TREASURE HUNTERS CLUB: SECRETS OF THE MAGICAL MEDALLIONS and kick back and enjoy a fun, fast paced and exciting adventure.

Thanks again for the opportunity and I hope to hear from all of you.

Sean

_______________________________________________________________

Here is a trailer for the book, watch and let me know what you think.

CSN Review

2010-07-12T21:22:00.004-05:00

Alright so I am sure that many of you have seen the reviews people have done through out the blogosphere well ladies and gents I am about to join them. I have recently be approached about doing a review on my blog from the lovely people at CSN Stores. If you don't know who I am talking about they are a company that sells all different kinds of furniture from bedroom furniture, to dining room, to office furniture.
Now as for what I will be reviewing.... Lets see if you guys can guess.

Ding, Ding, Ding you are correct lol. Seeing as I am a book reviewer, why not review a BOOKSHELF.

I am looking forward to seeing how well this works and gives my books a beautiful home. So be looking forward to that in the near future.

In My Mailbox.... Way over due!

2010-06-28T18:37:00.002-05:00

My Ultimate Sister Disaster - Jane Mendle
13 to Life - Shannon Delany
Manifest - Artist Arthur
Middleworld - J&P Voelkel
Tell me a Secret - Holly Cupala

Booking Through Thursday (January)

2010-05-28T19:07:00.002-05:00

January 7 -

Barbara wants to know:

What books did you get for Christmas (or whichever holiday you may have celebrated last month)?

Do you usually ask for books on gift-giving occasions or do you prefer to buy them yourself?

I actuall received one book for Christmas and that was This Lullaby by Sarah Dessen.

Sometimes if there is a book that I really really want and there is a gifting holiday coming up I might ask for it or hint at it but most of the time I buy books myself.

January 14 -

Suggested by Prairie Progressive:

Do you read the inside flaps that describe a book before or while reading it?

I read the inside flap before I read a book that way I can get a feel for whether I think I would like the book or not. In my opinion why read a book if I am not going to enjoy it. I am not saying that every book I read I enjoy because that is not the case. There have been many that I got and thought I would really like. Then after finishing it I find myself relieved that it is done becuase I was not enjoying it.

January 21 -

Who’s your favorite author that other people are NOT reading? The one you want to evangelize for, the one you would run popularity campaigns for? The author that, so far as you’re concerned, everyone should be reading–but that nobody seems to have heard of. You know, not JK Rowling, not Jane Austen, not Hemingway–everybody’s heard of them. The author that you think should be that famous and can’t understand why they’re not…

I honestly do not think I have an author that I like that others are not reading at the moment. There are many many amazing authors out there and I think people are starting to discover them as I have.

January 28 -

Jackie says, “I love books with complicated plots and unexpected endings. What is your favourite book with a fantastic twist at the end?”

So, today’s question is in two parts.

1. Do YOU like books with complicated plots and unexpected endings?

Absolutely. Those are usually my favorites. When I read a book like that I usually go running around the house and find the first person I can to gush to, even though they usually have no idea what I am talking about.

2. What book with a surprise ending is your favorite? Or your least favorite?

The Summoning by Kelley Armstrong.

Booking Through Thursday (December)

2010-05-28T18:52:00.002-05:00

December 17 -

Suggested by Barbara H:

What do you think of speed-reading? Is it a good way to get through a lot of books, or does the speed-reader miss depth and nuance? Do you speed-read? Is some material better suited to speed-reading than others?

I think speed reading can be good but ultimately depends on a persons preference. I do think that it can be a good way to get through many books but at the same time I think that if you are not a good speed reader and you are more skimming than anything you can miss some important meanings behind things. I do speed read sometimes but it depends on my mood and what it is that I am reading.

December 24 -

Given the choice, which do you prefer? Real history? Or historical fiction? (Assume, for the purposes of this discussion that they are equally well-written and engaging.)

I actually do not have a preference. I love to read about history, mainly the wars and egyptians and things like that, but at the same time I love reading historical fiction books. I like reading from a different period and putting myself into that period. I do say that I tend to read historical fiction more that real history but I dont really think that I have a preference on the matter.

December 31 -

It’s the last day of the year, and you know what that means … nostalgia and looking back.

What were your favorite books of the year? (Books that were new to you in 2009, if not necessarily published this year.)

I had quite a few in 2009. The Blue Bloods Series, I thought was absolutely amazing. The Luxe Series by Anna Godbersen. The House of Night series by the amazing Cast Duo. The Summoning by Kelley Armstrong was probably my favorite over all of them but not by much. They were all about equal. Need by Carrie Jones as also a favorite read from 2009.

In My Mailbox (30)

2010-05-24T18:34:00.002-05:00

I am not doing a vlog this week because my brother took the laptop to work but here are the books that I have received for review since my last IMM post.

For Review -

MagicKeepers: The Pyramid of Souls - Erica Kirov

This is book two and I have not yet read book one, so if anyone has it and would be willing to let me borrow it, please let me know.

Glimmerglass - Jenna Black
Siren - Tricia Rayburn
Forgive my Fins - Tera Lynn Childs

Bought -

Evernight - Claudia Gray
If I Stay - Gayle Forman

Stuff stuff and more stuff that just happens to be about books......

2010-05-19T20:07:00.003-05:00

Alright guys so this post is going to contain some random things but all are related to the blog. Mainly this is a post summing up some things that I have going on and some things that you will be seeing on the blog within the next week or two.

First off.. I would like to talk about a book that I just recently was reading. Notice I did not say a book that I had read..... Reason being I was unable to finish it. That book would be Forget-Her-Nots by Amy Brecount White. Let me start off by saying that this book was not bad by any means. I thought the concept was great. It was definitely something unique, just for some reason I was unable to get into it. It took me quite a LONG time to attempt to read it and one day I finally said I can't. It sounded good and I know others have enjoyed it but I was not one of those.

Also because I am SO far behind on my Booking through Thursday posts. I will be answering them in a vlog form a month at a time, until I am caught up.

Hopefully that is everything that needs to be done, but if I come up with anything else I will be sure to add it to the post.

In My Mailbox (29)

2010-05-02T18:32:00.003-05:00

In my mailbox was started by Kristi over at The Story Siren and is a weekly meme to discuss the books that we get each week.

For Review -

The Summer of Skinny Dipping - Amanda Howells

The Pack - LM Preston

(This one by the way, made me squeal when I opened it beacause I didnt know that I was getting it and am super excited about reading it!)

Shadow Hills - Anastasia Hopcus

The Turning: What Curiosity Kills - Helen Ellis

We Hear the Dead - Dianne K. Salerni

Picture the Dead - Adele Griffin

For the 1 ARC Tours -

Whisper - Phoebe Kitanidis

My Invented Life - Lauren Bjorkman

Bought -

Hex Hall - Rachel Hawkins

The Book Blogger Hop

2010-03-26T16:57:00.002-05:00

SO I just found this on another site.... that unfortunately I forgot where.... But anywho I think it is amazing and everyone should go check it out! It is basically a great way for everyone to get out there and look at some new material, so if you are intrigued head on over to Crazy for Books and see what it is all about!

In My Mailbox (28)

2010-03-25T17:56:00.002-05:00

In My Mailbox was started by Kristi over at The Story Siren! In My Mailbox is a way to share the books you received each week.

So this is what I have gotten since the last time that I posted. I do realize that it is Thursday, but I planned on doing it Sunday and totally spaced.

For Review -

This one made me squeal! I do not have a photo of it because it is at my friends house that I use to live with, but..........

The Ghost and The Goth - Stacey Kade

1 ARC Tours -

The Line - Teri Hall

The Library -

Splendor - Anna Godbersen
The Van Alen Legacy - Melissa de la Cruz
The Awakening - Kelley Armstrong

Borrowed (From my sister) -

Fallen - Lauren Kate

Beautiful Dead and Merlin's Harp Reviews

2010-03-25T17:43:00.000-05:00

Hey everyone I was scheduled to post my reviews of Beautiful Dead and Merlin's Harp today but sadly I got very behind. I am hoping to have the reviews up soon, but it might take some time, unfortunately. Im still adjusting to actually having a job and now a social life. I am hoping to get back into a routine with blogging and keeping up with it, which if you couldn't tell I have found very difficult since starting work.

So if you all would, give me some time and hopefully the blog will be better than ever :)

♥ Jordan

Chasing Brooklyn - Lisa Shroeder (1 ARC Tours)

2010-03-19T18:56:00.002-05:00

Summary - Restless souls and empty hearts.

Brooklyn can’t sleep. Her boyfriend, Lucca died a year ago, and now their friend Gabe has died of an overdose. Every time she closes her eyes, Gabe's ghost is there, waiting for her. She has no idea what he wants or why it isn't Lucca chasing her through her dreams.

Nico can’t stop. He’s always running, trying so hard not to feel the pain of missing Lucca. But when he begins receiving messages from his dead brother, telling him to help Brooklyn, emotions come crashing to the surface.

As the nightmares escalate and the messages become relentless, Nico reaches out to Brooklyn. But neither of them can admit that they're being haunted. Until they learn to let each other in, not one soul will be able to rest

Review - There is only one word to describe how I thought about this book..... AMAZING. When I first received the book I didnt not realize that it was written in verse form, and to be honest almost all other books that i had read in verse were not exactly my favorites. Once I picked this one up though I had a hard time putting it down. I loved that you knew exactly how Brooklyn was feeling without needing a lot of detail. I loved everything about this book. All of the characters were amazing. The plot was good, somewhat predictable but at the same time you didn't know what was coming next.

This was the first novel I have read by Lisa and it has inspired me to read her others and any more to come in the future. The ways that she was able to capture all of the emotions of the characters in such few words, I found absolutely amazing. This is definitely one I would recommend to anyone!

Cover - 4
Plot - 4
Character - 5
Writing - 5
Ending -4

In my Mailbox (27)

2010-03-12T22:24:00.004-06:00

In My Mailbox was started by Kristi over at The Story Siren! In My Mailbox is a way to share the books you received each week.

So this is the books I have gotten since the last time I posted an IMM post. A lot has been going on and I am hoping to get back into the groove. So with further ado here are the books.

For Review:

Poetry Speaks: Who I Am
Everlasting - Angie Frazier

For the 1 ARC Tours:

Something Maybe - Elizabeth Scott

Bought -

Sweep - Cate Tiernan

The Dark Divine Giveaway!

2010-02-28T15:09:00.003-06:00

Hey everyone, I was recently approached to do a giveaway for The Dark Divine. The cool thing is though that it isn't for the book, its for the nail polish!! There will be five winners. Originally there were only going to be four, but I am being sent five and already have one of my own.

This will not be like other contests I have held though... I thought we might get creative with this one. Since forgiveness is a theme in The Dark Divine, I thought that might be the theme for the contest. There are two options.

1. You can write about a time it was hard for you to forgive someone or it was hard for someone to forgive you.

2. You can write about forgiveness and why it is important to you.

Then when the contest is over i will decide who I thought had the best response. You can either share your stories or opinions here or you can e-mail me at jmoose09@gmail.com . Either one will work. Since the month is just beginning and I have something special coming up along with St. Patricks day I will end this on St.Patty's DAY :)

This is unfortunately for U.S Residents because I currently dont have the funds to send it internationally. Now if you know someone who is willing to mail it to you from the U.S. I will do that.

Thanks and I hope you all enjoy :D

Review Policy

2010-02-14T00:57:00.004-06:00

First off I would like to start by saying that reading is probably my number one passion in life and as such is the reason that I started my blog. When I first started blogging I didnt realize that this blogging community was out there. I had just brought home some books from the library and wanted to discuss them and my feelings about them. It wasnt until later on that I realized what all there was to blogging. The longer I had it the more I learned and now almost a year later you have what "Inside the Mind" is today.

When it comes to accepting books for reivew I try to keep an open mind. Granted there are genres that I prefer to read and ones that I dont I will not turn your book away if it doesnt fall into the category of genres that I do prefer. Although, I am not saying that I will automatically accept every request. If it looks interesting to me and strikes my interest then there is a good chance that I will accept it for review. Also I have no problem participating in blog tour or hosting contest and author interviews.

How do I write reviews? Well there is only one way. Honestly
I believe that everyone is going to have the own opinion and that is a good thing. If everyone agreed on everything all the time it wouldn't make anything interesting. If I read your novel and reall enjoy it my reviews will show that. If I happen to not enjoy it I will not bash it but simply point out the things that caused me not to enjoy it. I do, although, have a hard time writing a completely negetive review and if it is the case that I didn't entirely enjoy your novel I will try and point out the good aspects of the novel.

What types of books (genres) do I prefer to read? First and foremost I prefer to read Young Adult Fiction. I do sometimes read adult novels but not very often. Also I do not prefer to read non-fiction but as stated above I will consider it if I find the topic interesting. The types that I do prefer to read vary from historical fiction to paranormal to chic-lit and romance.

How long will it take to get a review? This really depends on how busy I am and how many books I have in the pile before the newly requested ones. I try to get reviews back out as soon as possible or as close to the release date as possible but sometimes this is hard. There are instances where it may take longer to get a review back out but I will always post a review.

Disclosure - The majority of the books that I receive for review come from either the author or the publisher. I do not accept or receive any kind of compensation for my reviews.

1 ARC TOUR Review - Troubadour by Mary Hoffman

2010-02-10T20:49:00.002-06:00

Summary - A story of persecution and poetry, love and war set in 13th century Southern France. As crusaders sweep through the country, destroying all those who do not follow their religion, Bertrand risks his life to warn others of the invasion. As a troubadour, Bertrand can travel without suspicion from castle to castle, passing word about the coming danger. In the meantime Elinor, a young noblewoman, in love with Bertrand, leaves her comfortable home and family and becomes a troubadour herself. Danger encircles them both, as the rising tide of bloodshed threatens the fabric of the society in which they live

(Summary taken from Goodreads)

Review - Alright so I have to start off by saying that i have mixed feelings about this one. Up until the last two to three chapters I had every intention of writing a negative review. The only thing that I didnt like about the book though is that I felt like it drug on and on. The last few chapters were the best part of the book to me. I never would have guessed the way that it ended. Though I enjoyed the outcome I did not enjoy the way that it ended. I felt that it ended too abrubptly. It is hard to explain a lot of the way I felt about this book. It was good at first got very boring in the middle and the ending was okay. Historical fiction is one of my favorite genre's but I did not enjoy this one as much as I have others. I do not know if it was the way that it was written or simply the time period. Overall I would say it was an ok read.

Cover - 3 stars

Plot - 4 stars

Characters - 5 stars

Writing - 3 stars

Ending - 3 stars

Updates!!

2010-02-06T20:52:00.003-06:00

Ciao!!

So I thought that it was about time that you guys got another update.. I am moving yet again, which I have to say I am kind of happy about. It is closer to job opportunities and I am moving in with family so it will be a lot easier! I have been getting a lot more reading done but the next few days I have to spend the next couple days packing all of my stuff back up. One good thing, I never un-packed my things before. lol

But on a more serious note, I think things are gonna start getting better for the blog. I should get a lot more reading done, the only thing that might get in the way of that is my two year old niece :P I'll just read when she is napping and at night time, which is more than I am able to do now.

Well that is all that I can think of at the moment.

1 ARC Tour Review : When the Whistle Blows

2010-01-29T22:06:00.002-06:00

Summary - Jimmy lives in Rowlesburg, West Virginia, during the 1940s. He does all the things boys do in the small mountain town: plays a mean game of football, pulls the unforgettable Halloween prank with his friends in “the Platoon,” and promises to head off into the woods on the first day of hunting season— no matter what. He also knows his father belongs to a secret society, and is determined to uncover the mysteries behind it! But it is a midnight encounter with a train that shows Jimmy the man his father really is.

Newcomer Fran Cannon Slayton’s powerful first novel captures the serendipity of boyhood by shining a spotlight on the peak adventures of Jimmy’s life. But at its heart, this is a story about a boy and his father in a time when trains reigned supreme.

(Taken from Goodreads)

Review - I am finding it hard to put my feelings for this book into words. I thought it was an a amazing book! One thing that I can point out that I absolutely adored was the way that the book was written. The story takes place in West Virginia many years ago and I am not sure if they still talk that way now but back then they had some improper language. And Im not talking about cursing, though I am sure they did that too, but it was just the way they talked. For instance they say dagburn a WHOLE lot through out the story and I loved it. I thought that it gave the story character. I also loved the characters in this story. Again it is hard to say why without giving away too much of the story but all the characters are amazing and have personalities that you see from a small town. (I would know I live in one :)) But back to the story, I thought it was an amazing coming-of-age story that any one would enjoy.

Cover - 4 stars

Plot - 3 stars

Characters - 5 stars

Writing - 5 stars

Ending - 5 stars

Have a been a horrible blogger lately??

2010-01-27T22:37:00.004-06:00

Hey everyone I feel like I owe you all an explanation. I have noticed that I have only been posting my IMM posts and feel like I have been neglecting the blog and you all deserve to know why.

I have recently moved out of my parents house and its not as easy as many think it would be. I have been dealing with a lot of roommate drama lately and its making a lot of things difficult. Also I have no job at the moment and trying to find one is what is taking up most of my time.

If many of you dont already know this I participate in the 1 ARC Tours and not having a job has made that even harder. I currently have a few of the tours books and are unable to get them out to the next people right now, which is making me feel horrible.

I am moving again soon with my brother and his wife so that I can be within walking distance of a job. Right now the town that I am living in has NOTHING! I know that may seem hard but my town population is either 407 or 704 cant remember but either way its very small and there are really no job opportunities here.

I am hoping that this posts helps people to understand why the blog has been so empty lately. But as soon as I am done writing this post and updating my Goodreads and what not I am locking myself in my room and reading! There is nothing to distract me tonight and I am determined to finish one if not both of the books that I am reading.

I also want to give a big thanks to everyone out there that has been very supportive and told me that if I ever need someone to talk to they are there. You guys are all amazing!

♥ Jordan

Nicholas Sparks Challenge...?

2010-01-26T01:02:00.001-06:00

Hey everyone,

So I have been thinking, Nicholas Sparks is freaking amazing but I have not read any of his novels.... I have seen all of the movies and I want to read his books so bad! I am thinking about making a challenge to read all of his books. The only thing is I dont know if such a challenge already exists.... If so can some one let me know.

Also let me know if you would be interested in participating. If I can get enough people that would be interested I think I might start it in a few months and let it run for about a year or so...

Anyways, if you have any thoughts on this, please let me know..

You can comment or you can send me an email at : jmoose09@gmail.com

In My Mailbox (26)

2010-01-25T15:12:00.002-06:00

In My Mailbox was started by Kristi over at The Story Siren! In My Mailbox is a way to share the books you received each week.

A Match Made in High School

When the principal announces that every senior must participate in a mandatory year-long Marriage Education program, Fiona Sheehan believes that her life can’t get any worse. Then she marries her “husband”: Jerky jock Todd, whose cheerleader girlfriend, Amanda, has had it in for Fiona since day one of second grade. Even worse? Amanda is paired with Fiona’s long-term crush, Gabe. At least Fiona is doing better than her best friend, Marcie, who is paired up with the very quiet, very mysterious Johnny Mercer. Pranks, fights, misunderstandings, and reconciliations ensue in an almost Shakespearean comedy of errors about mistaken first impressions, convoluted coupling, and hidden crushes.

The Mark

Cassandra Renfield has always seen the mark—a glow around certain people reminiscent of candlelight. But the one time she mentioned it, it was dismissed as a trick of the light. Until the day she watches a man awash in the mark die. After searching her memories, Cassie realizes she can see a person’s imminent death. Not how or where, only when: today.

Armed with a vague understanding of the light, Cassie begins to explore her “gift,” seeking those marked for death and probing the line between decision and destiny. Though she’s careful to hide her secret—even from her new philosophy-obsessed boyfriend—with each impending death comes the temptation to test fate. But so many questions remain. How does the mark work? Why is she the only one who sees it? And finally, the most important of all: If you know today is someone’s last, should you tell them?

Beautiful Dead

Something strange is happening in Ellerton High. Phoenix is the fourth teenager to die within a year. His street fight stabbing follows the deaths of Jonas, Summer andArizona in equally strange and sudden circumstances. Rumours of ghosts and strange happenings rip through the small community as it comes to terms with shock and loss. Darina,Phoenix's grief-stricken girlfriend, is on the verge. She can't escape her intense heartache, or the impossible apparitions of those that are meant to be dead. And all the while the sound of beating wings echo inside her head ! And then one dayPhoenix appears to Darina. Ecstatic to be reunited, he tells her about the Beautiful Dead. Souls in limbo, they have been chosen to return to the world to set right a wrong linked to their deaths and bring about justice. Beautiful, superhuman and powerful, they are marked by a 'death mark' -- a small tattoo of angel's wings.Phoenix tells her that the sound of invisible wings beating are the millions of souls in limbo, desperate to return to earth.Darina's mission is clear: she must help Jonas, Summer,Arizona, and impossibly, her belovedPhoenix, right the wrong linked to their deaths to set them free from limbo so that they can finally rest in peace. Will love conquer death? And if it does, can Darina set it free?

Merlin's Harp

Among the towering trees of magical Avalon, where humans dare not tread, lives Niviene, daughter of the Lady of the Lake and apprentice to Merlin the mage. Her people, the Fey, are folk of the wood and avoid the violence and avarice of man. But the strife of King Arthur's realm threatens even Avalon's peace, and Merlin needs his apprentice to thwart the chaos devouring Camelot. And so Niviene must use her special talents to help save a kingdom and discover the treachery of men and the beauty of love. A mystical love story, now back in print, sure to become a modern teen classic.

In My Mailbox (25)

2010-01-17T16:13:00.002-06:00

In My Mailbox was started by Kristi over at The Story Siren! In My Mailbox is a way to share the books you received each week.

This week I only got three books for review but I have to tell you that I screamed when I opened all of them.. I have decided not to post the descriptions this week so if you would like to know what these books are about I will link them to Goodreads below. Leave me a comment and let me know what you got :)

Tangled - Carolyn Mackler
Possessed - Kate Cann
Princess for Hire - Lindsey Leavitt

In My Mailbox (24)

2010-01-10T15:01:00.009-06:00

In My Mailbox was started by Kristi over at The Story Siren! In My Mailbox is a way to share the books you received each week.

For Review :

Summary - Jill Jekel has always obeyed her parents’ rules – especially the one about never opening the mysterious, old box in her father’s office. But when her dad is murdered, and her college savings disappear, she's tempted to peek inside, as the contents might be key to a lucrative chemistry scholarship.

To better her odds, Jill enlists the help of gorgeous, brooding Tristen Hyde, who has his own dark secrets locked away. As the team of Jekel and Hyde, they recreate experiments based on the classic novel, hoping not only to win a prize, but to save Tristen’s sanity. Maybe his life. But Jill’s accidental taste of a formula unleashes her darkest nature and compels her to risk everything – even Tristen’s love – just for the thrill of being… bad.

Summary - In a time of kings, queens, and conspiracy, it's impossible to know whom one can trust. . . .

In a kingdom far away and long ago, it was prophesied at her birth that the queen would die before her sixteenth birthday. So Shadow, an orphan girl the same age as the young queen, was given the duty to watch her every move. And as prophesies do tend to come true, the queen is poisoned days before her birthday. When the castle is thrown into chaos, Shadow escapes with a young knight, whom she believes was betrothed to the queen.

Unsure of why she is following Sir Kenway, but determined to escape as far as possible from the castle, her long-time prison, Shadow sets off on an adventure with the handsome knight who has been charged with protecting her. As mystery builds, and romantic tension does, too, Shadow begins to wonder what her role in the kingdom truly is. Soon, she learns, it is up to her to save her land.

Jenny Moss's novel is a lyrical, fast-paced adventure filled with mystery, magic, honor, and romance that will lead readers on an incredible journey.

For 1 ARC Tours :

Summary - I am unable to find a summary right now, I will post the description from the book cover later on...

Swag:

Review : Faketastic - Alexa Young

2010-01-10T13:40:00.003-06:00

Summary -

From besties to worsties and back again . . .

Team Avalon:

For Avalon, staying on top of trends has never been a problem—until her fellow cheerleaders decide that her BFF Halley is definitely out this season. Now Avalon must choose between the frenemy who embarrassed her in front of everyone or the new friends who stood by her.

vs.

Team Halley:

Halley thinks she's got it all: her forever-friend Avalon, her new bestie Sofee, and the hottest fall wardrobe at Seaview Middle School. Her life is a total YES. But when Sofee spies Avalon flirting with Halley's crush, will it be World War Halvalon all over again?

Review - Faketastic was a great sequal to Young's first novel "Frenemies". It was another cute and "fluffy" novel. I would have to say that there was more drama in this one than the last but I liked it. I felt there were more things that girls could also relate to in this novel.

The plot I thought wasnt all too unique but I still liked it.. I knew what was coming and for once I liked that. I didnt want to be kept in suspense, though there some things that I honestly can say I didnt see coming.

If anyone has read the first one and enjoyed it I would recommend reading this one too. Although some have said that you can read this without the first I wouldnt recommend it.

Cover - 3 stars

Plot - 3 stars

Characters - 4 stars

Writing - 4 stars

Ending - 4 stars

BLoggeista Update #1

2010-01-09T03:04:00.002-06:00

Hey guys this is my first bloggeista update.. I haven't gotten to do anything yet but I do have a list of the things that I would like to get done, and I thought that once they were done I could mark them off :P

Work on Author Interviews
Template Posts
Write a Review Policy
Write a Privacy Policy
Anything else that I can think of....

Bloggiesta

2010-01-08T17:43:00.002-06:00

Some of you may be asking what is Bloggiesta? In short, it’s a blogging marathon. A opportunity to cross those nagging items off of your to-do list and improve your blog while in the good company of other awesome bloggers doing the same thing. Break out the nachos, enchiladas, drinks, mariachi music and whack a pinata or two!

What to do during the Bloggiesta?

Write reviews.
Write backup posts for a rainy day.
Write that great post idea from three months back.
Work on series posts.
Write guest posts.
Put out invitations for guest posts.
Conduct and edit author interviews.
Create template posts for your future reads (ie: title, images, linking, tags, etc,) so you can open up, write review and post without being bogged down with technicalities
Clean up your tags, archives, books reviewed list, etc.
Create a text file (or Google Doc) of cheat sheets (html codes, post url’s, etc)
Improve your blog template, clean up sidebars, add a favicon, install those plugins that you’ve been meaning to do.
Add or edit your about me page, review policy, disclosure policy, privacy policy, create landing pages (for example – an about me for Twitter readers page) or any other pages you might have.
Any bloggy type housekeeping that you’ve been neglecting.
Clean up and update your challenge lists. Link up your posts with hosts.
Make sure all of your social network profiles are up to date. Brand yourself through those profiles with color scheme, images, etc.
Go get a gravatar.
Visit the Blogging Tips group on the Book Blogs Ning and find ways to improve your blog.
Work on any specialized projects that you may have going.
Clean out and organize your feed reader and blog subscriptions.
Create an elevator pitch.
Make business cards.
Find a blogging buddy.
The sky’s the limit!

How to play:

The date is Friday, January 8th, Saturday the 9th and Sunday the 10th. You can really start whenever you want within that time but official hours are 8am to 8am (wherever you are). That is a total of 76 hours, of which you should aim high for a total of 18-24 hours spent on the challenge. (I chose both a weekday and a weekend to hopefully accommodate different needs. The hours spent on the challenge do NOT need to be in a row. Use the entire 76 hour time frame and see what you can do with it. (I say aim for 24 hours but really if you can only do six, twelve or eighteen that’s fine too. I just like to have something to aim for.)
It’s your call as to how much you want to put into it. But you have to put something into it or it’s not a challenge. So stay up all night or sleep and take care of kids when you need to.
When you start the challenge, come to this blog and to the “starting line” post and link to your specific post about beginning the challenge which is posted on your blog. That way I’ll be able to track participants and know who’s really at the party.
How many updates (if any) you want to do is up to you. Make it work for you. Personally, I plan on making a to do list and then crossing off items as I accomplish them. There will be bloggers hosting mini-challenges as well. These are great to learn new information. To get an idea of the mini-challenges last time, check out the list.
If you are on Twitter, use the hashtag #bloggiesta to join the chatter.
Your final summary post needs to be posted no later than Monday, January 11th. Come back to the finish line and link to your specific summary post. Your summary should include the number of hours spent on the challenge, what you accomplished, links to mini-challenge hosts if you completed them and any other experiences you’d like to add.
Sign the Mr. Linky now if you intend to join the challenge. I’d like to get an idea of how many people will be participating. If you blog about the challenge, point them to this post. I’ll have a starting line post on Friday to sign in when you begin the challenge. Don’t forget to subscribe, so you’ll be notified of future bloggiesta posts.

I am going to try and put as much time into this as I can. I have so many things that I would like to get done and am hoping that I can. I will make a post later tonight for the things that I am planning on doing.

In My Mailbox (23)

2010-01-03T19:49:00.003-06:00

In My Mailbox was started by Kristi over at The Story Siren! In My Mailbox is a way to share the books you received each week.

This week I only got two books for review.

Review - Jessica's Guide to Dating on the Dark Side - Beth Fantaskey

The undead can really screw up your senior year . . .

Marrying a vampire definitely doesn’t fit into Jessica Packwood’s senior year “get-a-life” plan. But then a bizarre (and incredibly hot) new exchange student named Lucius Vladescu shows up, claiming that Jessica is a Romanian vampire princess by birth—and he’s her long-lost fiancé. Armed with newfound confidence and a copy of Growing Up Undead: A Teen Vampire’s Guide to Dating, Health, and Emotions, Jessica makes a dramatic transition from average American teenager to glam European vampire princess. But when a devious cheerleader sets her sights on Lucius, Jess finds herself fighting to win back her wayward prince, stop a global vampire war—and save Lucius’s soul from eternal destruction

Chasing Brooklyn - Lisa Shroeder

Restless souls and empty hearts.

Brooklyn can’t sleep. Her boyfriend, Lucca died a year ago, and now their friend Gabe has died of an overdose. Every time she closes her eyes, Gabe's ghost is there, waiting for her. She has no idea what he wants or why it isn't Lucca chasing her through her dreams.

Nico can’t stop. He’s always running, trying so hard not to feel the pain of missing Lucca. But when he begins receiving messages from his dead brother, telling him to help Brooklyn, emotions come crashing to the surface.

As the nightmares escalate and the messages become relentless, Nico reaches out to Brooklyn. But neither of them can admit that they're being haunted. Until they learn to let each other in, not one soul will be able to rest.

Descriptions taken from Goodreads

2010 2nd in a Series Challenge

2010-01-01T00:03:00.001-06:00

And yet again here is another challenge that I am partaking in. I did not do this one last year though I wanted to.

Challenge Guidelines:
1. Anyone can join. You don't need a blog to participate.
--Non-Bloggers: Include your information in the comment section.

2. There are four levels:

-- Curious – Read 3 novels that are 2nd in a series or second time you've read the author.

-- Fascinated – Read 6 that are 2nd in a series or second time you've read the author.

-- Addicted – Read 12 novels that are 2nd in a series or second time you've read the author.

-- Obsessed – Read 20 novels 2nd in a series or second time you've read the author.

3. Any genre counts.

4. You can list your books in advance or just put them in a wrap up post. If you list them, feel free to change them as the mood takes you.

5. Challenge begins January 1st thru December, 2010.

Again I am shooting for Addicted but if I get over that, I would be very happy.

Reviews
1. Faketastic - Alexa Young

2010 1st in a Series Challenge

2010-01-01T00:02:00.001-06:00

Here is yet another challenge that I will be participating in. It is being hosted by a new person this year. If you would like to join head on over here and sign up.

Challenge Guidelines:
1. Anyone can join. You don't need a blog to participate.
--Non-Bloggers: Include your information in the comment section.

2. There are four levels:

-- Curious– Read 3 novels that are first in a series.

-- Fascinated – Read 6 novels that are first in a series.

-- Addicted – Read 12 novels that are first in a series.

-- Obsessed – Read 20 novels that are first in a series.

3. Any genre counts.

4. You can list your books in advance or just put them in a wrap up post. If you list them, feel free to change them as the mood takes you.

5. Challenge begins January 1st thru December, 2010.

I think I am going to shoot for addicted but if I make it to obsessed that would be even better.

1. Hex Hall - Rachel Hawkins

2. The Ghost and The Goth - Stacey Kade

3. Firelight - Sophie Jordan

Well guys I didnt make it to the one that I wanted. This year wasnt too great and I only made it to curious. I dont think I'll be participating again this year but maybe in 2012!

2010 A to Z Challenge

2010-01-01T00:01:00.005-06:00

This is another challenge that I have decided to participate in this year. It is being hosted by Becky from Becky's Book Review. Its pretty self explanatory though, you read a book that either the title or the authors name starts with the letter.

If you would like to sign up head on over here and sign up.

I dont have a specific list for this one but here is the alphabet ;p

A- Along for the Ride - Sara Dessen
B-
C-Chasing Brooklyn - Lisa Shroeder
D-
E-
F- Faketastic - Alexa Young
G- Ghost and the Goth - Stacey Kade
H- Hex Hall - Rachel Hawkins
I-
J-Jill Connor Brown - Sweet Potato Queens Book of Love
K-
L-
M-
N-
O-
P-
Q-
R-
S-Sophie Jordan - Firelight
T- Troubadour - Mary Hoffman
U-
V-
W- When the Whistle Blows - Fran Cannon Slayton
X-
Y-
Z-

2010 Debut Author Challenge

2010-01-01T00:00:00.002-06:00

This year I decided to participate in the 2010 Debut Author Challenge. This is my first year participating and I am very excited. There are many titles that are coming this year that I cannot wait for. If you are unfamiliar with the upcoming titles you can find them on Goodreads here.

Are you interested in participating? Well head on over here where the lovely Story Siren is hosting the Challenge. She has an information post about the challenge and also a sign up post. (Both I have linked)

I am unsure of which books I will be reading but these are some of the ones that I am hoping to read. This list is subject to changes.

Restoring Harmony by Joëlle Anthony
Brightly Woven by Alexandra Bracken
Forget-Her-Nots by Amy Brecount White
Wish by Alexandra Bullen
The Rise of Renegade X by Chelsea Campbell
The Cinderella Society by Kay Cassidy
Nevermore by Kelly Creagh
Nightshade by Andrea Cremer
Tell Me A Secret by Holly Cupala
Mistwood by Leah Cypess
13 to Life by Shannon Delaney
The Body Finder by Kimberly Derting
Magic Under Glass by Jaclyn Dolamore
The Lonely Hearts Club by Elizabeth Eulberg
Faithful by Janet Fox
Everlasting by Angie Frazier
The Line by Teri Hall
Hex Hall by Rachel Hawkins
Guardian of the Dead by Karen Healey
Shadow Hills by Anastasia Hopcus
A Love Story: Starring My Dead Best Friend by Emily Horner
The Secret Year by Jennifer Hubbard
All Unquiet Things by Anna Jarzab
Claire de Lune by Christine Johnson
The Ghost and the Goth by Stacey Kade
Iron King by Julie Kagawa
Harmonic Feedback by Tara Kelly
The DUFF by Kody Keplinger
Other by Karen Kincy
Whisper by Phoebe Kitanidis
The Witch's Alphabet by Caitlin Kittredge
Sea by Heidi R. Kling
Princess for Hire by Lindsey Leavitt
The Tension of Opposites by Kristina McBride
The Mark by Jen Nadol
Firespell by Chloe Neill
The Sky Is Everywhere by Jandy Nelson
Forbidden Sea by Sheila A. Nielson
Before I Fall by Lauren Oliver
Dirty Little Secrets by Cynthia Jaynes Omololu
The False Princess by Eilis O'Neal
Anna and the Boy Masterpiece by Stephanie Perkins
Tagged by Mara Purnhagen
The Prophecy of Days by Christy Raedeke
Bleeding Violet by Dia Reeves
A Blue So Dark by Holly Schindler
Freefall by Mindi Scott
The Beautiful Between by Alyssa B. Sheinmel
Shade by Jeri Smith-Ready
Voices of Dragons by Carrie Vaughn
A Match Made in High School by Kristin Walker
Paranormalcy by Kiersten White
The Naughty List by Suzanne Young

There are quite a few titles on this list, and I am not sure if I will read all of them, but these are the ones that I would like to read.

2009 Challenges Wrap Up

2009-12-30T22:45:00.002-06:00

I only participated in two challenges this year and I am sad to say that I did not complete them. I was very close on both and would have completed them if it had not been for some recent complications.

The two challenges were 1st in a Series Challenge and 2009 YA Challenge.

I plan on participating in both of these again and plan on actually finishing them. I will also be participating in some more challenges that I will post on the 1st.

In My Mailbox (22)

2009-12-30T17:23:00.000-06:00

In My Mailbox was started by Kristi over at The Story Siren! In My Mailbox is a way to share the books you received each week.

This week I decided to do another vlog because I had so many books to talk about. I made this video before Christmas and just got around to posting it.

Books Mentioned

Review -
Wicked: Witch & Curse - Nancy Holder &Debbie Viguie
Wicked: Legacy & Spellbound - Nancy Holder &Debbie Viguie
Wicked: Resurrection - Nancy Holder &Debbie Viguie
Pretty Little Devils - Nancy Holder
Possessions - Nancy Holder
The Vinyl Princess - Yvonne Prinz
Firespell - Chloe Neill
The Dark Divine - Bree Despain
Split - Stefan Petrucha
Magic Under Glass - Jaclyn Dolamore
The Returners - Gemma Malley

Christmas -
This Lullaby - Sarah Dessen

Updates

2009-12-27T19:16:00.002-06:00

Hi guys

I just want to apologize for my absence, there has been a lot going on with me. I just realized that I am not going to be able to finish my challenges for this year, which makes me really sad... I am hoping that starting with a new year things will go better with my blog. Especially now that I am starting to get my own groove and so on. There are a lot of things that I have started through out the last several months and havent continued with. Here lately I have been feeling like a horrible blogger! lol I felt like I was neglecting it and thought that I would make a post trying to explain for the most part everything that has been going on.

Thanks for putting up with me :D

I will be gone for some time...

2009-12-15T20:18:00.001-06:00

Hey everyone, as you can tell from the title of this post I will not be posting very much for the next month or so. I just moved out of my parents house and it didnt go so well... I will try and keep up with reviews so. I will also try and get tour books back out as soon as possible.

Thanks
Jordan

Frenemies - Alexa Young

2009-12-10T20:06:00.003-06:00

Summary - What happens when two besties become full-blown worsties?

Avalon Greene rules the fashion scene at her sunny SoCal middle school with a diamond-clad fist, calling out classmates for their fashion-do's and most unfortunate clothes-pas. She's determined to host the social event of the season—a soiree in honor of her forever-friendship with Halley! Unfortunately, Halley's new look is one thing Avalon just can't celebrate. . . .

Halley Brandon is just back from art camp and can't wait to share her funky new style with her best friend, Avalon. But when Avalon cries fashion foul, Halley realizes her best friend's true colors may clash with her own. Has their ultra-fabulous friendship finally gone out of style?

From sharing custody of their puppy, Pucci, to drawing up a list of who gets which friends, Avalon and Halley discover what happens when you battle the person who knows everything about you—and isn't afraid to use your secrets to get what she wants.

Best friends. Worst enemies. Frenemies.

Review - Frenemies was a cute novel that I am sure many young girls can relate to. The plot was very good and didnt take awhile to get into and I just kept reading. Before I knew it I was done. This is definitely a good light, weekend read.

One thing I really liked about about Alexa's writing was that she put a lot of description in and that helps to make the picture in my head more distinct and I know exactly what she was seeing while she wrote.

I would recommend this book for almost any young adult reader who enjoy a "fluffy" novel.

Cover - 4

Plot - 4

Characters - 4

Writing - 5

Ending - 5 (It left me wondering what was gonna happen next. Not in a suspenseful way but in more of a way like the book shouldn't have ended yet.)

Booking Through Thursday (9)

2009-12-10T19:59:00.002-06:00

Suggested by Tammy:

What items have you ever used as a bookmark? What is the most unusual item you’ve ever used or seen used?

Hmm, I have used some odd things but probably not as odd as some.. I have used pictures, envelopes, random strips of paper, bookmarks, pencils, chapstick, a hairband, a bobby pin... and probably more things but that is all that is coming to mind at the moment...

MIA

2009-12-10T19:55:00.003-06:00

Hey guys sorry I've been gone for so long! I had to go to my mom's to watch my sisters while she went out of town and they have no internet :( But I will be posting some reviews soon and get everything up to date... Again sorry :)

Contest Winners!!!

2009-11-29T10:55:00.002-06:00

Here are the winners for my Dark Divine Swag Giveaway. I just want everyone to know that these were picked my the random number generator, so if you didn't win this time, come back and maybe you will on the next one :)

And the winners are......

Casey

Kristi

Emily

Congratulations, I will be e-mailing you shortly. Please try and respond within 48 hours.

In My Mailbox (21)

2009-11-28T21:56:00.004-06:00

In My Mailbox was started by Kristi over at The Story Siren! In My Mailbox is a way to share the books you received each week.

This week I only got one book and it was from the library.

Viola in Reel Life - Adriana Trigiani

Summary - I'm marooned.

Abandoned.

Left to rot in boarding school . . .

Viola doesn't want to go to boarding school, but somehow she ends up at an all-girls school in South Bend, Indiana, far, far away from her home in Brooklyn, New York. Now Viola is stuck for a whole year in the sherbet-colored sweater capital of the world.

Ick.

There's no way Viola's going to survive the year—especially since she has to replace her best friend Andrew with three new roommates who, disturbingly, actually seem to like it there. She resorts to viewing the world (and hiding) behind the lens of her video camera.

Boarding school, though, and her roommates and even the Midwest are nothing like she thought they would be, and soon Viola realizes she may be in for the most incredible year of her life.

But first she has to put the camera down and let the world in.

Also, I took my brother with me and he got a book that I am sure I am going to read after him. It is a series and lucky for us, our library has all four books. There is a fifth that comes out in January.

House of Dark Shadows (Dreamhouse Kings) - Robert Liparulo

Summary - Dream house . . . or bad dream?

When the Kings move from L.A. to a secluded small town, fifteen-year-old Xander is beyond disappointed. He and his friends loved to create amateur films . . . but the tiny town of Pinedale is the last place a movie buff and future filmmaker wants to land.

But he, David, and Toria are captivated by the many rooms in the old Victorian fixer-upper they moved into--as well as the heavy woods surrounding the house.

They soon discover there's something odd about the house. Sounds come from the wrong directions. Prints of giant, bare feet appear in the dust. And when David tries to hide in the linen closet, he winds up in locker 119 at his new school.

Then the really weird stuff kicks in: they find a hidden hallway with portals leading off to far-off places--in long-ago times. Xander is starting to wonder if this kind of travel is a teen's dream come true . . . or his worst nightmare.

A Great and Terrible Beauty - Libba Bray

2009-11-27T11:09:00.003-06:00

Summary - A Victorian boarding school story, a Gothic mansion mystery, a gossipy romp about a clique of girlfriends, and a dark other-worldly fantasy--jumble them all together and you have this complicated and unusual first novel. Gemma, 16, has had an unconventional upbringing in India, until the day she foresees her mother's death in a black, swirling vision that turns out to be true. Sent back to England, she is enrolled at Spence, a girls' academy with a mysterious burned-out East Wing. There Gemma is snubbed by powerful Felicity, beautiful Pippa, and even her own dumpy roommate Ann, until she blackmails herself and Ann into the treacherous clique. Gemma is distressed to find that she has been followed from India by Kartik, a beautiful young man who warns her to fight off the visions. Nevertheless, they continue, and one night she is led by a child-spirit to find a diary that reveals the secrets of a mystical Order. The clique soon finds a way to accompany Gemma to the other-world realms of her visions "for a bit of fun" and to taste the power they will never have as Victorian wives, but they discover that the delights of the realms are overwhelmed by a menace they cannot control. Gemma is left with the knowledge that her role as the link between worlds leaves her with a mission to seek out the "others" and rebuild the Order. (Summary taken from Goodreads)

Review - A Great and Terrible Beauty was nothing like I expected in both good and bad ways. I loved the story, it was unique and kept you attention. I felt, though, that it didnt get too interesting until the last 100 pages. There were many things that I didnt see coming that I felt made the wait worth it. Also the ending I thought was spectacular. If I didnt know that there were more I would think to read on though. But the way that it ended was very good for the story. There were some aspects of the story, I felt could have gone into more detail.

Cover - 4 stars

Plot - 5 stars

Characters - 5 stars

Writing - 4 stars

Ending - 4 stars

In My Mailbox (20)

2009-11-22T21:51:00.004-06:00

In My Mailbox was started by Kristi over at The Story Siren! In My Mailbox is a way to share the books you received each week.

This week I only got one book, but it is one that I am looking forward to reading.

Summary - Sara Black is tiptoeing across a fraying tightrope.
As the new eleventh grader at Anton High – the most elite public school in the country – she sticks out like an old VW bus in a parking lot full of shiny BMWs. But being the new kid also brings a certain advantageous anonymity.
In Anton High’s world of privilege, intelligence, and wealth, Sara can escape her family’s tarnished past and become whomever she wants.
And what’s the harm in telling a few little black lies when it can lead to popularity? That is, until another it girl at Anton becomes jealous of Sara’s social climbing.
With her balance evaporating, one small push could bring Sara crashing down.

2010 YA Book Challenge

2009-11-20T00:58:00.007-06:00

So I have decided that I will be participating in this challenge starting in January. There are four different challenges....

--The Mini YA Reading Challenge – Read 12 Young Adult novels.

--Just My Size YA Reading Challenge – Read 25 Young Adult novels.

--Stepping It Up YA Reading Challenge – Read 50 Young Adult novels.

--Super Size Me YA Reading Challenge – Read 75 Young Adult novels.

I think I am going to shoot for the Stepping It Up challenge. If I am able to do more that would be awesome, but that is going to be my goal. If you would like to sign up head on over to J. Kaye's Blog and sign up. As soon as I start I will link all of my reviews on this page.

Reviews
1. Faketastic - Alexa Young

2. When the Whistle Blows - Fran Cannon Slayton

3. Troubadour - Mary Hoffman
4. Chasing Brooklyn - Lisa Shroeder
5. Hex Hall - Rachel Hawkins
6. The Ghost and The Goth - Stacey Kade
7. Firelight - Sophie Jordan

Waiting on Wednesday (10)

2009-11-18T08:00:00.004-06:00

There are two books that I am really, really looking forward to reading and they are...

The Iron King - Julie Kagawa

Meghan Chase has never fit in at her small-town high school, and now, on the eve of her 16th birthday, she discovers why. When her half brother is kidnapped, Meghan is drawn into a fantastical world she never imagined--the world of Faery, where anything you see may try to eat you, and Meghan is the daughter of the summer faery king. Now she will journey into the depths of Faery to face an unknown enemy . . . and beg the help of a winter prince who might as soon kill her as let her touch his icy heart. The Iron King is the first book in the Iron Fey series.

Other - Karen Kincy

Seventeen-year-old Gwen hides a dangerous secret: she’s Other. Half-pooka, to be exact, thanks to the father she never met. Most Americans don’t exactly roll out the welcome mat for Others, especially not the small-town folks of Klikamuks, Washington. As if this isn’t bad enough, Gwen’s on the brink of revealing her true identity to her long-time boyfriend, Zack, but she’s scared he’ll lump her with the likes of bloodthirsty vampires and feral werewolves.

When a pack of werewolves chooses the national forest behind Gwen’s home as their new territory, the tensions in Klikamuks escalate-into murder. It soon becomes clear a serial killer is methodically slaying Others. The police turn a blind eye, leaving Gwen to find the killer before the killer finds her. As she hunts for clues, she uncovers more Others living nearby than she ever expected. Like Tavian, a sexy Japanese fox-spirit who rivals Zack and challenges her to embrace her Otherness. Gwen must struggle with her own conflicted identity, learn who she can trust, and-most importantly-stay alive.

In My Mailbox (19)

2009-11-14T22:22:00.006-06:00

In My Mailbox was started by Kristi over at The Story Siren! In My Mailbox is a way to share the books you received each week.

This week I didn't do a vlog because I didn't get too many books and it takes forever to upload videos on Youtube.

For Review:
Lady MacBeth's Daughter - Lisa Klein
Anastasia's Secret - Susanne Dunlap
By The Time You Read This, I'll Be Dead - Julie Anne Peters

Swag - This week I got some swag from Reggie over at Reggie Writes. I got an Invisible Touch bookmark and a Graffiti Girl sticker.

The Dark Divine Swag giveaway!

2009-11-14T21:42:00.004-06:00

Hey everyone, sorry this has taken so long to get up but its finally here. So the lovely Bree Despain sent me some swag to give away on my blog, and here is how its going to work.

There will be 3 winners. The first winner will get a bookmark, a smaller version bookmark, and a sticker. The other two winners will get a bookmark and a smaller version. Oh and did I mention that she signed them?? So if you are interested here is what you have to do to enter :)

+3 for being old followers
+2 for being new follower
+2 following me on twitter (@jmoose09)
+2 for anywhere that you post it. (Twitter, sidebar, own post, ANYWHERE :)

Contest ends November 28 and is for US residents (unless you have someone here that would be willing to send it to you.)

Booking Through Thursday (8)

2009-11-13T05:06:00.002-06:00

Suggested by JM:

“Life is too short to read bad books.” I’d always heard that, but I still read books through until the end no matter how bad they were because I had this sense of obligation.

That is, until this week when I tried (really tried) to read a book that is utterly boring and unrealistic. I had to stop reading.

Do you read everything all the way through or do you feel life really is too short to read bad books?

I have to first of all say that this week's question is a really good one! I am always wondering how people feel about this.

I do have to say that before, I would stop reading a book. If I found it uninteresting or like it dragged on. But then one day I decided that I would never quit a book ever again. I have had many since that I wish that I could have quit because they were for the most part really boring. Some were kind of disturbing or had content that I didn't really feel comfortable reading about, but I pushed myself to finish.

I think blogging is one of the things that has helped me to finish books.

In My Mailbox (18)

2009-11-09T02:31:00.003-06:00

Hey guys, so this week I am not doing a Vlog. I didn't have anything to really talk about in it, thought I do have my helper again. Ok so for the things that i got in the mail. Also I am going to link them to Amazon so that you can see the covers and also so you can get the description, in case you don't know anything about either book :)

For Review: Nothing

Bought: Nothing
Borrowed: Nothing

Won: Ruined - Paula Morris
The Lovely Bones - Alice Sebold (This one has the movie cover, which kind of disappointed me. I like original covers on books, but hey I can't complain! I have been wanting to read this book for so long and now I have my own copy)

Swag: This week the lovely Bree Despain was nice enough to send me some Dark Divine Swag to giveaway on my blog.

I will try and post the details about this within the next few days.

Booking Through Thursday

2009-11-05T22:28:00.002-06:00

Which do you prefer? Biographies written about someone? Or autobiographies written by the actual person (and/or ghost writer?)

I think that I would have to go with Autobiographies. I think its easier to relate to because your hearing their story from them, not someone interpreting their story. I know that most biographies are based from the truth or mostly contain the truth but I find Autobiographies easier to relate to.

Princess Bookie Button Challenge

2009-11-04T23:07:00.005-06:00

So Cindy over at The Princess Bookie is holding a challenge to make a button for her site and also for her tour site. Well here are my entries. Let me know what you think.

I hope you can see them ok. The originals were bigger but I shrunk them to put them in the post. Hope you guys like them :)

The Chosen One - Carol Lynch Williams

2009-11-01T13:22:00.001-06:00

Summary - Thirteen-year-old Kyra has grown up in an isolated polygamous community without questioning her father’s three wives and her twenty brothers and sisters. Or at least without questioning them much—if you don’t count her secret visits to the Mobile Library on Wheels to read forbidden books, or her meetings with the boy she hopes to choose for herself instead of having a man chosen for her. But when the Prophet decrees that Kyra must marry her 60-year-old uncle—who already has six wives—Kyra must make a desperate choice in the face of violence and her own fears of losing her family.
(From Goodreads)

Review - Okay, so I'm not going to lie here, this book made me so mad and irritated and I don't know how many times I wanted to throw it or crawl into it and tell at everyone.

The book was mostly about polygamists, which I personally find kind of disturbing. I am not a very religious person, but this book was always saying anything outside their compound was "the devil". This was one of the things that irritated me the most.

Then toward the end, I still didn't love the book, but I was starting to get a little more into it. I was happy with the way that it ended. I'm doing my best not to give away any spoilers, but I will say that there are some things that I wish would have also happened, or gone differently.

Cover - 4 stars

Plot - 3 stars

Characters - 4 stars

Writing - 4 stars

Ending - 4 stars

In My Mailbox (17)

2009-11-01T13:02:00.003-06:00

In My Mailbox was started by Kristi over at The Story Siren! In My Mailbox is a way to share the books you received each week.

So again I decided to do another vlog. I have to use my digital camera, and for some reason the video has crappy quality, so sorry about that. Anyways, here is my video, and leave me a comment and let me know what you guys think.

Books Mentioned:

For Review:

Dreaming Anastasia - Joy Preble
Captivate - Carrie Jones
Dust - Susan Berliner
Invisible Lines - Mary Amato
Troubadour - Mary Hoffman (1 ARC Tours)
When the whistle Blows - Fran Cannon Slayton (1 ARC Tours)

Books for Grabs:
The Comeback - Marlene Perez

Other things mentioned:
Explorer X swag

Quite possibly the best contest EVER!!!

2009-10-29T02:45:00.006-05:00

Ok, so Kristi from The Story Siren is hosting a contest that, as said in the title, could quite possibly be the BEST CONTEST EVER!!!

So you might be asking yourselves, What is the amazing contest????

Well its for HUSH, HUSH and FALLEN!!!!

(Just a little note, this is not my picture. I borrowed it from Kristi)

Also she is giving away two HUSH, HUSH posters! I don't know about you, but I think this is one of the greatest contest ever and if you agree, well then you shouldn't be reading anymore, you should be heading over to her site and entering! (The link is above)

My TBR Pile!!

2009-10-28T01:20:00.006-05:00

Ok so here lately I have been getting a lot of books! And I decided to get them all together (because they were everywhere!) and see what all I had. Needless to say I was in shock my all the books that I need to read!

So this is the entire thing!!! A total of 37 books. I know that's not A LOT, but to me, its kind of over whelming, in a good way :)

First pile is the books that I have out from the library.

These are my library books. From Carpe Diem down, is kinda iffy, but the rest are ones that I really want to read.

This is my review pile. These are all books that I have gotten for review. I am really excited to get to most of these!!

And last but not least, these are the books that I have won in contest and have bought that i really want to read.

Read-A-Thon

2009-10-25T14:15:00.002-05:00

Hey guys, so my read-a-thon went terrible. I haven't read anything. My dad kept me so busy yesterday! I was so mad because I had told him a week prior that Saturday I was doing it! But, I am going to get in as much reading as I can, and finish my goal within the week. In case you dont know what that is, my goal was to read these four books.

So I think that is it and I going to go work on Vamped!

Also I would just like to say thanks to all the cheerleaders that there were yesterday and for all the support! You guys are great!

In my Mailbox (16)

2009-10-25T13:48:00.007-05:00

In My Mailbox was started by Kristi over at The Story Siren! In My Mailbox is a way to share the books you received each week.

This week I decided to do a vlog!! My brother helped so, if you hear anyone else, or I make a weird face, its because of him :) Let me know what you think!

Books Mentioned:

For Review :
Explorer X: Alpha - L.M. Preston
Mr. Darcy, Vampyre - Amanda Grange
Candle Man: The Society of Unrelenting Vigilance - Glenn Dakin
The Vinyl Princess - Yvonne Prinz
Faketastic - Alexa Young (1 ARC Tours)

From Contests:
Lockdown: Escape from Furnace
Other Books mentioned:
Frenemies - Alexa Young
The Demon King - Cinda Williams Chima

And now a picture of the coin that was mentioned in the video. This came from Michelle Moran for hosting a contest for her books and also reviewing them. (Which will also be coming up soon)

Update again

2009-10-24T18:07:00.002-05:00

Hey guys, well its not going so good. My dad keeps trying to find work for me to do, so that I can't be inside and read. I am going to be sitting down and working on Vamped, right now! I am not going to stop until my goal of 4 books, is finished!

Thanks for supporting me :)

Read a thon Update

2009-10-24T16:01:00.001-05:00

Hey guys sorry I havent updated, I havent been able to read much yet because i had to go get my brother, but Im going to put on some comfy clothes and get started!

Need - Carrie Jones

2009-10-24T06:38:00.003-05:00

Summary - Zara collects phobias the way other high school girls collect lipsticks. Little wonder, since life's been pretty rough so far. Her father left, her stepfather just died, and her mother's pretty much checked out. Now Zara's living with her grandmother in sleepy, cold Maine so that she stays & safe. Zara doesn't think she's in danger; she thinks her mother can't deal.

Wrong. Turns out that guy she sees everywhere, the one leaving trails of gold glitter, isn't a figment of her imagination. He's a pixie and not the cute, lovable kind with wings. He's the kind who has dreadful, uncontrollable needs. And he's trailing Zara.

With suspense, romance, and paranormal themes, this exciting breakout novel has all the elements to keep teens rapidly turning the pages.

(From Goodreads)

Review - Well I can definitely say that I did not get what I was expecting, in a good way! I actually really enjoyed this book. At times it was kinda predictable, but then there were others that I had no idea that it was going to happen. I never had a jaw dropping moment, but it constantly kept me guessing. This is a perfect example of my favorite kind of book! Its got romance and fantasy and everything, that to me, makes a great book. It was also hilarious! I loved Zara, she was so quirky and I constantly found myself laughing at things that she would say or do. I have read many reviews where people didn't like that the phobias were included in the book, one even said it went too far, for me I thought it was perfect! It made Zara who she was! I have nothing bad to say about this one, and if anyone asked me if they should read it, I would tell them HECK YES!!!!

Cover - 5 stars

Plot - 5 stars

Characters - 5 stars

Writing - 4 stars

Ending - 4 stars

Princess Bookie's Contests!!!!

2009-10-23T14:02:00.004-05:00

Ok, so many of you probably know that the lovely Cindy from Princess Bookie, is holding some, well quite a few, contests for the Read-a-Thon this weekend. I am super excited to be participating as well! But to the good stuff, Cindy has decided to hold many contest, which you should definitely check out. Here are some of the contests.....

Hush, Hush OR Once a Witch

Prophecy of the Sisters Audio

Identical, Wake, and Monstrumologist

Tear Collector

Switch OR Snap

Possessions - Nancy Holder

Local Girls OR Rich Boys

Certain Slant of Light

Geek Charming

City of Ashes & Girl Stays in the Picture

Language of Flowers (as heard of in Forget-her-Nots)

Vamped - Lucienne Diver (SIGNED)

Take me There - Susan Colasanti

What would Emma do?

Secret Society (1)

The Debs or Love, Lies, and Texas dips

Beguiled - Deeanne Gist And J Mark Bertrand

Simply Irresistible - Jennifer Banash

Slept Away - Julie Kraut

Take by Storm - Angela Morrison

Secret Society (2)

Hush, Hush & Leviathan

The Naughty list (This one is one that many many people are waiting for! If I won this I would die! It looks so cute and I cant wait to read it!)

Bewitching Seasons

Time of the Witches

Top Ten uses for an Unworn Prom Dress

Captivate (1)

Captivate (2)

4 ARC Bundle (This one you have to see for yourself!!) These are all amazing books that I think if I won them I would die! I would have a heart attack at my computer!!!

So these are the ones up right now, and you should head on over and check them out. There will be more to come, and if I have time I will update this post with the new contests as they come.

Read-a-Thon Books

2009-10-23T02:50:00.002-05:00

Ok, so after taking some time to think about it, I think I have decided on what books I am going to be reading for the Read-A-Thon on Saturday. So here they are....

If you click on the picture it blows up
so that you can see the books better :)

I tried to pick some relatively short ones, so that I could cut down my TBR pile some. There may be more, and then again there may not be. I am going to be finishing a book, hopefully today and post the review for that and then Saturday get these done.

My brother has also decided to participate, so I have to go pick him up Saturday morning and he is coming to my house to read with me, YAY!

So be looking forward to updates from me all day Saturday :)

The Honest Scrap Award!!

2009-10-22T22:38:00.003-05:00

I feel so honored to be getting this award. As most of you probably know, not all of my reviews are good. I know there have been books that I didn't really like, and I stated that in my reviews. I feel that it is my part to put out honest reviews. I know some people only point out the good, or in some cases choose to point out only the things they didn't like. To me it is up to them to post what they thought, but for me you are never going to get anything but the honest truth.

This is the Honest Scrap Award. It is for those bloggers who write from the heart. The rules are to pass it along to seven bloggers and then list 10 honest things about myself. Here are those deserving of this honour, bloggers who write from the heart and touch me because of it (and I'm going to try to nominate blogs that haven't already received this award, so that doesn't means I don't love yours!).

And now for the people that I feel deserve this award. :)

1. Cindy (Princess Bookie)

2. Hope (Hope's Bookshelf)

3. Lauren (Lauren's Crammed Bookshelf)

4. Emilee (Penultimate Page)

5. Vania (Reverie Book Reviews)

6. Sharon (Sharon loves Books and Cats)

7. Kelsey (Book Scout)

Ok, now for the Ten Honest Facts...

* I talk to people in my sleep. Once I told my brother "I can't tell, or grandpa will throw away the cow"! Even though we don't own a cow. And my grandpa was no where around.

* I like to eat sour gummy worms and sour cream and onion pringles.... TOGETHER!

* Once I died my hair, and it came out pink. It was supposed to be bright auburn. I have Strawberry Blonde hair, and needless to say I freaked.

* I can't drink normally coffee but I can drink Frappuccino's from Starbucks! Try and figure that one out!

* My shoes size is 11 in womens! I have big feet! :)

* I have two step-brothers, one full brother, and two half-sisters.

* I own a zombie dog (according to my brother!!) She has one eye and is blind in the one, she has almost no teeth so her tongue hangs out. I rescued her, she was walking around my neighborhood almost dead, and she didnt belong to any of my neighbors so I took her in and cleaned her up, but it was too late, she lost one eye :(

* During my lifetime, I have had 3 fish, 23 cats, 9 dogs. Most have died though :( In my house right now I have 4 cats and 3 dogs, and at my moms we have 5 cats and a dog.

* I hate it when people read over my shoulder, or invade my personal space!! That annoys me more than anything!!!

*I have a love/hate relationship for Twilight :)

Booking Through Thursday (7)

2009-10-22T22:31:00.002-05:00

If you could ask your favorite author (alive or dead) one question … who would you ask, and what would the question be?

Hmm this is a tough one for me!!! I wouldn't say that I have a favorite author as of right now! And if I did, sitting here trying to think about what I would ask them, I just draw a blank!!!! The only thing that comes to mind, is why decide to write? But I honestly can't think of who I would ask because I dont really have a favorite author. I am a big Jane Austen fan along with Lemony Snicket and Stephenie Meyer, but I can't pick one to be my favorite. Can I just ask them all???

Blogger Interview with The Story Siren

2009-10-21T09:00:00.000-05:00

Ok, so this is my first interview with another blogger, and I got the lovely Kristi from The Story Siren to talk about her experiences with blogging.

What is the main reason that you started blogging?
The main reason, is a really boring answer. But it was just so I could keep track of what I was reading and what I thought about it. Had a found goodreads before I started my blog, it might not be here today!

What has been the most exciting thing to happen to you since you started your blog?

The most exciting thing(s) would be; having my review used for the Gone campaign in the UK. There was a huge poster with a quote from my review and there was even advertisements on some of the phone booths in the UK with a quote from my review. Recently I just had a quote in the paperback version of Wondrous Strange by Lesley Livingston.

What is the greatest joy that you get from blogging?

The greatest joy is when you get those comments from someone that really just loved a book and they thinks it's the greatest thing ever. That always reminds me about what I'm ultimately hoping I'm doing, sharing my love of reading with others.

What is your favorite book or series?

I have way to many to name. And it depends on what kind of mood I'm in!

Has there ever been a character that you could relate to the most?

I don't think there is one particular character that's really stood out to me as someone that I personally have related to. There are many times, when I've felt a connection to a character for one reason or another, I love when that happens.

Have you ever thought about writing your own book?

Yes, all the time. I have stories that I've started, outlines that I've made. I just don't have the guts to share them with anyone! I'd love to have a novel published someday, but I just don't know if I have what it takes.

You have been such an inspiration to me. Has there been anyone who inspired you?

Really? Wow. Well, I'm glad I could be some sort of inspiration! Plenty of people inspire me all the time! When I first started blogging, Chelsea from the Page Flipper was a pretty big inspiration! She helped me A LOT.

What book would you recommend that everyone should read, that is a book that you have read recently?

Recently, I just finished Front & Center. It's part of the Dairy Queen series by Catherine Gilbert Murdock. It is a fantastic series that I don't think enough people know about. It's realistic fiction, and it has awesome characters and a fantastic message. It's so fantastic, I definitely recommend it!

Thanks Kristi for taking the time to do an interview with me.

--------

If you guys would like to know more about Kristi or her reviews, you can check her blog out over at The Story Siren.

Hold Still Trailer

2009-10-20T13:20:00.003-05:00

There are many contests for this book right now, but one that you all should go check out is on Shalonda's blog. So go check it out!

And here is another one from A Maze of Books!!

Alis - Naomi Rich

2009-10-19T16:13:00.003-05:00

Summary - At fourteen, Alis has never been outside her strict religious community. But when her parents arrange for her to marry a forty-year-old man, she flees desperately to the dangerous, unfamiliar city. She learns quickly that the only way to survive there is to become a thief—or worse. Facing an impossible choice between a forced marriage or life on the streets, Alis seizes control of her own fate. But the path she chooses sets off a disastrous chain of events that leave her accused of murder. Steadfastly loyal, Alis must decide: will she betray a loved one or sacrifice herself?

(From Goodreads)

Review - This book was nothing like I thought it was gonna be, but in a good way! I honestly thought that this book was just gonna be "Amish" type girl leaves the community falls in love with the guy she cant have and they live happily ever after. Well that was not the case. Alis had to go through so much in this book, and I think that's why I enjoyed it. Also it kept me wanting more. Not like an OMG I have to keep reading, but it kept my attention so that I wanted to know what was gonna happen next. And right in the middle, the unexpected happens. You dont even know its coming unitl BAM its there. My jaw actually dropped while I was reading! That had to have been my favorite part, but other than that I found the book to be pretty calm. There were some scenes with lots of emotions but not enough for me to get all excited over. This is a book that I would recommend to others, if they had not read it. But I don't think I will see myself reading it again.

Cover - 4 stars

Plot - 4 stars

Characters - 5 stars (I love Alis through out this book! Shes amazing!)

Writing - 4 stars

Ending - 4 stars

Waiting on Wednesday(s)

2009-10-19T04:00:00.001-05:00

Ok, So I have been really far behind this month on the books that I am looking forward to so I am going to post all of them in one post.

For 10/7 - Guardian of the Dead by Karen Healey Release is April 2010

In less than a day I had been harassed, enchanted, shouted at, cried on, and clawed. I’d been cold, scared, dirty, exhausted, hungry, and miserable. And up until now, I’d been mildly impressed with my ability to cope.

At her boarding school in New Zealand, Ellie Spencer is like any ordinary teen: she hangs out with her best friend, Kevin; obsesses over her crush on a mysterious boy; and her biggest worry is her paper deadline. Then everything changes: In the foggy woods near the school, something ancient and deadly is waiting.

For 10/14 Firespell by Chloe Neill Release is January 5, 2010

As the new girl at the elite St. Sophia’s boarding school, Lily Parker thinks her classmates are the most monstrous things she’ll have to face…

When Lily’s guardians decided to send her away to a fancy boarding school in Chicago, she was shocked. So was St. Sophia’s. Lily’s ultra-rich brat pack classmates think Lily should be the punchline to every joke, and on top of that, she’s hearing strange noises and seeing bizarre things in the shadows of the creepy building.

The only thing keeping her sane is her roommate, Scout, but even Scout’s a little weird—she keeps disappearing late at night and won’t tell Lily where she’s been. But when a prank leaves Lily trapped in the catacombs beneath the school, Lily finds Scout running from a real monster.

Scout’s a member of a splinter group of rebel teens with unique magical talents, who’ve sworn to protect the city against demons, vampires, and Reapers, magic users who’ve been corrupted by their power. And when Lily finds herself in the line of firespell, Scout tells her the truth about her secret life, even though Lily has no powers of her own—at least none that she’s discovered yet…

And for 10/21 Harmonic Feedback by Tara Kelly

Tara Kelly's HARMONIC FEEDBACK is about a 16-year old music obsessed, smart-mouthed girl with Asperger's syndrome who starts a band, falls in lust and learns to question what "normal" really means.

Release is May 25, 2010